What does it mean to be in remission Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

( /_ˈriˌmɪʒən/ )

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

The state of a disease or disorder in which there is a stable and lasting suppression of its symptoms and signs, and the patient experiences no or minimal symptoms, but the disease may still be present in the body.

Examples

After completing chemotherapy, she was in remission and felt like herself again.
The patient was in remission for five years before the cancer returned.

Synonyms

Remission
Pause
Stable

Etymology

The word “remission” comes from the Latin “remissio,” meaning “a sending back” or “a sending away.”

Additional Information

Being in remission does not mean that the disease has been cured, but rather that it is no longer active or progressing. It is essential for patients to continue monitoring their health and following treatment plans to prevent relapse. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, can also help in managing the disease.

Remission can vary in duration and may be temporary or permanent. In some cases, patients may experience a relapse, requiring further treatment and management.

Usage Notes

When describing a patient’s condition, use “remission” instead of “cured” to accurately convey the extent of their recuperation.

Cultural References

Remission has been referenced in popular culture, including in TV shows and movies, to raise awareness about the experiences of people living with chronic illnesses.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

Feeling in remission from stress:

Having a break from the constant pressure
Enjoying a sense of calm and relaxation

Related Words or Phrases

Cure
Remit
Stable

Collocations

Complete remission
Partial remission
Duration of remission

Frequency of Use

The word “remission” is commonly used in medical contexts, particularly in oncology, to describe the condition of patients with cancer or other chronic diseases.

Common Misspellings

Remission
Remisison
Remedission