rabies
UK: ˈreɪbiːz | US: ˈreɪbiːz
n. a fatal viral disease of mammals, transmissible through saliva (especially via bites), causing madness, convulsions, and paralysis.
rabies = rab<to rage> + es<noun suffix>
- rab<to rage>: From Latin rabies ("madness, rage"), derived from rabere ("to be mad, rave").
- es<noun suffix>: A Latin noun-forming suffix, often indicating a state or condition.
Etymology Origin:
The word rabies traces back to Latin rabies, reflecting the disease's hallmark symptom—violent aggression in infected animals. The root rab- ("to rage") vividly captures the frenzied behavior caused by the virus. Over time, the term evolved to specifically denote the disease, retaining its connection to madness.
Rabies is almost always fatal once symptoms appear.
The dog was quarantined after showing signs of rabies.
Vaccinating pets is crucial to prevent the spread of rabies.
Ancient texts describe rabies as a "madness from animal bites."
Wildlife like bats and raccoons are common carriers of rabies.