emaciation
UK: ɪˌmeɪsiˈeɪʃən | US: ɪˌmeɪsiˈeɪʃən
n. the state of being abnormally thin or weak, especially due to illness or malnutrition
The word "emaciation" traces back to Latin emaciare ("to make lean"), combining e- (a prefix meaning "out") and maciare (from macies, meaning "leanness"). The root maci- is linked to macros (Greek for "long" or "slender"), reflecting the idea of gradual wasting away. Over time, the suffix -ation was added to form a noun describing the result of this process. The word vividly captures the physical decline associated with extreme thinness.
Severe illness led to his rapid emaciation.
The doctor noted signs of emaciation in the malnourished child.
Emaciation is a common symptom of advanced eating disorders.
The refugees showed alarming emaciation after months without proper food.
The artist’s sketches depicted the emaciation of famine victims.