AIDS

UK: eɪdz | US: eɪdz

Definition

  1. n. a serious medical condition caused by a virus (HIV) that weakens the immune system, making the body vulnerable to infections and diseases.

Structure

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Etymology

The term "AIDS" is an acronym for Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome, coined in 1982 to describe the condition where the immune system fails due to HIV infection. The word reflects its medical origins:

  • Acquired distinguishes it from congenital conditions.
  • Immune Deficiency highlights the collapse of the body’s defense system.
  • Syndrome refers to the collection of symptoms.
    While technically split into four morphemes, it is commonly treated as a single lexical unit in modern usage.
Examples

  1. Early diagnosis of AIDS can significantly improve treatment outcomes.

  2. Researchers continue to search for a cure for AIDS.

  3. Public awareness campaigns have reduced the stigma associated with AIDS.

  4. Antiretroviral therapy helps manage AIDS by controlling HIV.

  5. The global fight against AIDS requires sustained funding and education.