Asymptomatically – Definition & Meaning

Asymptomatically is a term that is often used in medical contexts to describe a condition or disease that does not present any symptoms. It is a term that is becoming increasingly relevant in the current global health crisis, as many people who are infected with the coronavirus are asymptomatic, meaning they show no signs of illness.

Definitions

Asymptomatically is defined as the absence of symptoms associated with a particular condition or disease. It refers to a state in which a person is infected with a virus or bacteria, but does not show any outward signs of illness.

Origin

The term asymptomatically is derived from the Greek word ‘asymptōmatos’, which means ‘without symptoms’. The word ‘asymptomatic’ was first used in the medical context in the early 20th century.

Meaning in different dictionaries

According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, asymptomatically means “without exhibiting symptoms”. The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “not showing any symptoms of a disease or medical condition”.

Associations

Asymptomatically is often associated with infectious diseases, such as the coronavirus, as many people who are infected with the virus do not show any symptoms. It is also associated with the concept of “silent carriers”, which refers to people who are infected with a disease but are not aware of it because they do not show any symptoms.

Synonyms

Synonyms for asymptomatically include: symptom-free, asymptomatic, without symptoms, and not showing signs of illness.

Antonyms

Antonyms for asymptomatically include: symptomatic, exhibiting symptoms, and showing signs of illness.

The same root words

The root word of asymptomatically is ‘symptom’, which is derived from the Greek word ‘symptōma’, meaning ‘chance occurrence’. Other words derived from the same root include symptomatic, symptomatology, and symptomless.

Example Sentences

1. Many people who are infected with the coronavirus are asymptomatic, meaning they show no signs of illness.
2. The disease can be spread by asymptomatic carriers who are unaware that they are infected.
3. Asymptomatically infected individuals can still transmit the virus to others.
4. Regular testing is crucial in identifying asymptomatic cases of the disease.
5. The patient was asymptomatic for several weeks before developing severe symptoms.