Edema Meaning and Definition
Edema
Pronunciation
/ˈiːdɪmə/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A pathological accumulation of excessive fluid in tissues, often caused by infection, injury, or disease, leading to swelling and congestion.
Examples
- The patient was diagnosed with edema after injuring her ankle during the game.
- Edema can be caused by a variety of factors, including kidney failure and heart disease.
Synonyms
- Swelling
- Inflammation
Antonyms
- Deflation
- Shrinkage
Etymology
The word “Edema” comes from the Greek word “oema”, meaning “swelling”, and has been used in medical contexts since the 17th century.
Usage Notes
Edema is typically used in medical and clinical contexts to describe a specific condition, but it can also be used more broadly to describe any type of swelling or accumulation of fluid.
Cultural References
Edema has been featured in various medical dramas and documentaries, including the popular TV show “House M.D.”.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
None
Related Words or Phrases
- Inflammation
- Swelling
- Fluid buildup
Collocations
- Edema in the legs
- Edema after surgery
- Edema caused by injury
Frequency of Use
Edema is a relatively rare word in everyday conversation, but it is commonly used in medical and clinical contexts.
Common Misspellings
- Edimma
- Edmina