vertigo
UK: ˈvɜːtɪɡəʊ | US: ˈvɜːrtɪɡoʊ
n. a sensation of dizziness or spinning, often caused by a disturbance in the inner ear or visual system.
n. a state of confusion or disorientation.
vertigo = vert<turn> + igo<noun suffix indicating condition>
- vert (from Latin vertere, meaning "to turn")
- igo (a Latin suffix forming nouns denoting a state or condition, akin to "-ness" or "-ity")
Etymology Origin:
The word vertigo originates from Latin vertīgō, derived from vertere ("to turn"). It reflects the sensation of spinning or disorientation, metaphorically linked to the act of turning. The suffix -igo transforms the verb into a noun describing a persistent condition, emphasizing the physical or mental state of imbalance. Historically, it was used in medical contexts to describe dizziness but later expanded to metaphorical uses in psychology and literature.
She experienced vertigo when she looked down from the tall building.
The sudden movement of the boat gave him a brief bout of vertigo.
His vertigo made it difficult for him to stand up straight.
The film’s spinning camera work induced vertigo in some viewers.
After the accident, she suffered from chronic vertigo.