Asymptomatic is a term commonly used in medical science to describe a condition or disease that does not show any symptoms. It is a word that has become increasingly relevant in the current times, especially with the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. In this article, we will explore the definition, meaning, associations, synonyms, antonyms, and origin of asymptomatic.
Definitions
Asymptomatic refers to a medical condition or disease that does not show any symptoms. In other words, a person who is asymptomatic may have the disease but shows no outward signs of it. This term is often used to describe infectious diseases, such as COVID-19, where a person may be infected but not show any symptoms.
Origin
The term asymptomatic is derived from the Greek word “asymptotos,” which means “not falling together.” The word was first used in the medical context in the early 20th century to describe a condition where a patient had a disease but did not show any symptoms.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, asymptomatic means “not showing symptoms of a disease or medical condition.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines asymptomatic as “not exhibiting any symptoms of a disease or disorder.”
Associations
Asymptomatic is commonly associated with infectious diseases, such as COVID-19, where a person may be infected but not show any symptoms. It is also associated with chronic diseases, such as diabetes and hypertension, where a patient may have the disease but not show any symptoms until it is too late.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of asymptomatic include:
- Without symptoms.
- Symptomless.
- Asymptotic.
- Subclinical.
- Silent.
Antonyms
Some antonyms of asymptomatic include:
- Symptomatic.
- Clinical.
- Obvious.
- Evident.
- Manifest.
The same root words
Some words that have the same root as asymptomatic include:
- Asymptote.
- Asymmetry.
- Asynchronous.
- Asymptomaticity.
Example Sentences
Here are some example sentences using the word asymptomatic:
- Despite being asymptomatic, the patient tested positive for COVID-19.
- The disease is often asymptomatic in its early stages.
- It is important to identify asymptomatic carriers of the disease to prevent its spread.
- The patient was asymptomatic for years before being diagnosed with cancer.
- Asymptomatic patients may still be contagious and should take precautions to avoid spreading the disease.