Definition

A serious infectious disease that mainly affects the lungs but can also impact other parts of the body, caused by a specific type of bacteria. It often leads to symptoms like coughing, fever, weight loss, and chest pain.

Example

The doctor diagnosed her with tuberculosis after she showed symptoms like a persistent cough and weight loss.

Conversation

Have you heard about the increase in tuberculosis cases lately?

Yeah, I read an article about it; it’s pretty concerning.

I didn't realize it was still such a big issue today.

I know, right? We really need to be more aware of diseases like tuberculosis.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Tuberculosis is formed from "tuber" (from Latin *tuber*, meaning swelling or lump) and "culosis" (from Latin *-osis*, meaning condition or disease). The word refers to a condition characterized by the presence of lumps or swellings, particularly in the lungs.

Memory Tip

Think of 'tuber' meaning a lump or swelling, which helps you remember that tuberculosis is a disease characterized by such swellings in the lungs.

Visually Confused Words