Obesity Meaning and Definition
Obesity
Pronunciation
/ˈʌbɪsɪti/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A state of excess body fat, typically defined by a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher, which can increase the risk of various health problems, including diabetes, heart disease, and certain types of cancer.
Examples
- The growing obesity rates among children in the United States are a major public health concern.
- The doctor warned her that her obesity was putting her at risk for serious health issues.
Synonyms
- Corpulence
- Overweight
Antonyms
- Slimness
- Thinness
Additional Information
Obesity is a complex issue, influenced by a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. It can have serious consequences for overall health and wellbeing, and effective management requires a comprehensive approach, including a balanced diet and regular exercise.
Obesity is a global epidemic, with over 39% of the world’s adult population affected. The condition is more common in certain populations, such as women and those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds.
Etymology
The word “obesity” comes from the Latin “obesitas”, meaning “fatness”, and is derived from the verb “obedere”, meaning “to eat excessively”.
Usage Notes
When referring to an individual, use the phrase “suffers from obesity” instead of “is obese” to emphasize the condition rather than the person.
Cultural References
Obesity is often referenced in popular culture, particularly in media focused on health and wellness.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
“Weighty issue” is an idiomatic phrase related to obesity.
Related Words or Phrases
Words or phrases closely related to obesity include “overweight”, “diabetes”, “heart disease”, and “dieting”.
Collocations
Common collocations with “obesity” include “weight loss”, “exercise”, and “diet”.
Frequency of Use
According to the Oxford English Corpus, “obesity” is a frequently used term in health-related contexts, with over 10,000 mentions per year.
Common Misspellings
Common misspellings of “obesity” include “obesisty”, “obisity”, and “obesitye”.