diarrhea
UK: ˌdaɪəˈrɪə | US: ˌdaɪəˈriːə
n. a condition in which feces are discharged from the bowels frequently and in a liquid form
The word "diarrhea" originates from Greek diarrhoia, combining dia- (meaning "through") and -rrhoia (meaning "flow" or "discharge"). The term literally describes the excessive "flow through" the intestines, vividly capturing the symptom of the condition. The Greek root rhein (to flow) also appears in other medical terms like "rheumatism" (originally thought to be caused by bodily fluid imbalances). Over time, the spelling evolved into "diarrhea" in English, retaining its diagnostic precision.
Travelers to certain regions often experience diarrhea due to unfamiliar bacteria.
The doctor advised drinking plenty of fluids to combat dehydration from diarrhea.
Severe diarrhea can be a symptom of food poisoning.
The clinic provides oral rehydration salts for patients suffering from diarrhea.
Antibiotics sometimes cause diarrhea as a side effect.