What does dying of consumption mean Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈkənʃ.əm.pʃən.dɪŋ.təusuʊm/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun phrase

Definition

What does dying of consumption mean refers to a condition in which a person’s body is gradually wasting away due to a prolonged illness, typically tuberculosis, that is consuming their energy and resources, leading to a decline in their physical and mental health.

Examples

• The patient’s health began to decline rapidly, and she was eventually diagnosed with consumption.
• Consumption was a major public health concern in the 19th century, leading to widespread suffering and death.

Synonyms

• Tuberculosis
• Wasting disease

Antonyms

• Health
• Recovery

Additional Information

History: Consumption has been a human affliction for centuries, with evidence of its existence dating back to ancient civilizations. In the 19th century, it was a leading cause of death worldwide, particularly among the young and the poor. With the advent of antibiotics, the number of deaths from consumption has dramatically decreased.

Mannerisms: People suffering from consumption often exhibit warning signs such as weight loss, fatigue, and a general decline in physical and mental health. Their behavior may become more withdrawn and reclusive as the disease progresses, leading to a sense of isolation and desperation.

Symptoms: Common symptoms of consumption include fever, night sweats, coughing, fatigue, weight loss, and loss of appetite. As the disease advances, patients may experience more severe symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, and weakness.

Cultural significance: Consumption has had a profound impact on human culture and society, shaping art, literature, and music throughout history. It has inspired countless works of fiction, including novels, plays, and films, many of which serve as a testament to the human spirit’s ability to endure even in the face of overwhelming adversity.

Prevention and treatment: With the discovery of antibiotics, the treatment of consumption has become much more effective. Patients can now be treated with antibiotics, and early diagnosis and intervention can significantly improve their chances of recovery. Prevention measures, such as maintaining good hygiene, avoiding overcrowding, and getting regular check-ups, can also help to reduce the risk of contracting the disease.

Causes: Consumption can be caused by a variety of factors, including exposure to infected individuals, poor living conditions, and a weakened immune system. Understanding the causes of consumption can help to prevent the spread of the disease and reduce its impact on affected communities.

Etymology

The term “consumption” originated in the 15th century from the Latin words “consumptio,” meaning “wasting away,” and “consumptus,” meaning “wasted.” It was initially used to describe the physical wasting away of the body due to prolonged illness or disease.

Usage Notes

When using the term “consumption,” use it to refer specifically to the condition of gradually wasting away due to a prolonged illness, such as tuberculosis. Avoid using it as a synonym for general wasting away or decline, as this can be misleading and inaccurate.

Cultural References

• The novel “The Turn of the Screw” by Henry James features a character suffering from consumption.
• The play “The Wild Duck” by Henrik Ibsen explores the theme of consumption and its impact on a family.
• The film “The English Patient” by Anthony Minghella features a character struggling with consumption.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

• “Wasting away to nothing”
• “Consumed by disease”
• “A consuming passion”

Related Words or Phrases

• Wasting disease
• Tuberculosis
• Wasting away

Collocations

• “Consumption of oxygen”
• “Consumption of energy”
• “Consumption of resources”

Frequency of Use

The term “consumption” is relatively rare in modern language, with a frequency of use that is less than 1% of total word usage.

Common Misspellings

• convumption
• consumption
• consumpit