inflammation
UK: ˌɪnfləˈmeɪʃən | US: ˌɪnfləˈmeɪʃən
n. a localized physical condition in which part of the body becomes reddened, swollen, hot, and often painful, especially as a reaction to injury or infection
n. the action of setting something on fire or catching fire (archaic/literary)
n. a state of intense excitement or agitation (figurative)
inflammation = in<into> + flamm<flame> + ation<noun suffix>
- in (Latin prefix): "into, within"
- flamm (Latin root): from flamma ("flame")
- ation (noun-forming suffix): indicates a process or condition
Etymology Origin:
The word traces back to Latin inflammare ("to set on fire"), combining in- (intensifying) and flamma ("flame"). Over time, its meaning expanded from literal burning to the biological concept of tissue "heat" and swelling. The figurative sense of "excitement" emerged from the metaphorical link between fire and intense emotion.
The inflammation in her ankle subsided after applying ice.
Chronic inflammation can contribute to various diseases.
The speech ignited an inflammation of patriotic fervor among the crowd.
Doctors prescribed antibiotics to reduce the inflammation.
His reckless words caused an inflammation of tempers in the meeting.