Bulimia, also known as bulimia nervosa, is a serious eating disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. Those who suffer from bulimia have a constant fear of gaining weight, and they often engage in binge eating followed by purging through self-induced vomiting, laxatives, or excessive exercise. In this article, we will discuss the definition, meaning, and associations of the term “bulimic.”
Definitions
Bulimic is an adjective that describes someone who suffers from bulimia nervosa. It is used to describe the behavior and habits of those who engage in binge eating and purging. The term “bulimic” is often used interchangeably with “bulimia nervosa.”
Origin
The term “bulimia” comes from the Greek words “bous” (ox) and “limos” (hunger). The word “bulimic” is derived from this term and was first used in the medical field to describe the symptoms of bulimia nervosa.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, bulimic is defined as “relating to, affected with, or practicing bulimia nervosa.” The Cambridge Dictionary defines it as “someone who suffers from bulimia nervosa.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “having or relating to bulimia nervosa.”
Associations
The term “bulimic” is often associated with negative connotations, as it represents a serious mental health disorder. Those who suffer from bulimia nervosa often struggle with low self-esteem, body image issues, and anxiety. They may also experience physical health problems such as dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and gastrointestinal issues.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for the term “bulimic” include:
- Bulimia nervosa.
- Binge eating disorder.
- Eating disorder.
- Compulsive eating.
- Food addiction.
Antonyms
As “bulimic” is an adjective that describes a condition, there are no direct antonyms for the term. However, antonyms for the symptoms associated with bulimia nervosa may include:
- Healthy eating habits.
- Positive body image.
- Balanced diet.
- Self-acceptance.
- Mental wellness.
The same root words
The root words of “bulimic” are “bous” (ox) and “limos” (hunger). Other words that share the same root words include:
- Bulimia: an eating disorder characterized by binge eating and purging.
- Polyphagia: excessive hunger or increased appetite.
- Anorexia: an eating disorder characterized by a fear of gaining weight and restrictive eating habits.
- Hyperphagia: excessive eating or overeating.
Example Sentences
- She was diagnosed with bulimia nervosa and was referred to a specialist for treatment.
- The bulimic behavior was taking a toll on her physical and mental health.
- He struggled with compulsive eating and was afraid he may develop bulimia.
- The prevalence of bulimia nervosa has increased in recent years due to societal pressure to conform to unrealistic beauty standards.
- She sought therapy to address her body image issues and bulimic tendencies.