Definition

Relating to or affected by a disease caused by bacteria that form small lumps in the body, often affecting the lungs.

Example

The doctor diagnosed her with a tuberculous infection that required immediate treatment.

Conversation

I heard that he was diagnosed with something tuberculous last week.

That's really concerning; I hope he gets the right treatment soon.

Yeah, I can't believe it, especially since it's pretty rare these days.

Absolutely, but if caught early, he should be able to recover well.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Tuberculous → It is formed from "tuberculum" (from Latin, meaning a small swelling or lump) and the suffix "-ous" (meaning full of or characterized by). The word "tuberculous" refers to being characterized by small lumps, particularly in the context of the disease tuberculosis, which is marked by the formation of tubercles in the lungs.

Memory Tip

Think of 'small lumps' ('tuberculum') that characterize a condition — that's why tuberculous refers to being full of these small swellings.

Visually Confused Words