osteoporosis

American  

[os-tee-oh-puh-roh-sis] / ˌɒs ti oʊ pəˈroʊ sɪs /

noun

Pathology.

1. a disorder in which the bones become increasingly porous, brittle, and subject to fracture, owing to loss of calcium and other mineral components, sometimes resulting in pain, decreased height, and skeletal deformities: common in older persons, primarily postmenopausal women, but also associated with long-term steroid therapy and certain endocrine disorders.

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osteoporosis British  

/ ˌɒstɪəʊpɔːˈrəʊsɪs /

noun

1. porosity and brittleness of the bones due to loss of calcium from the bone matrix

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osteoporosis Scientific  

/ ŏs′tē-ō-pə-rō′sĭs /

1. A bone disease characterized by decrease in bone mass and density, resulting in a predisposition to fractures and bone deformities such as the collapse of one or more vertebrae. It occurs most commonly in women after menopause as a result of estrogen deficiency. Calcium supplementation and weight-bearing exercise are used to treat and prevent osteoporosis.

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osteoporosis Cultural  

1. A softening of the bones that gradually increases and makes them more fragile. It is caused by the gradual loss of the mineral calcium, which helps make bones hard. Osteoporosis occurs most often in elderly women.

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Discover More

Many experts now believe that osteoporosis can be prevented through regular exercise, mineral supplements, and a diet high in calcium.

Other Word Forms

• osteoporotic adjective

Etymology

Origin of osteoporosis

First recorded in 1840–50; osteo- + Greek pór(os) “passage” ( pore ² ) + -osis

Example Sentences

Cancer treatment and osteoporosis had damaged her teeth, leaving her with six lost fillings and toothache.

From BBC • Mar. 24, 2026

"Adolescence is a key period for building strong bones, and achieving optimal bone mass during this time can reduce lifelong risks of fractures and osteoporosis," said Jessie P. Buckley, Ph.D.,

From Science Daily • Mar. 21, 2026

On the particular issue of menopause, Dr Beattie said a delay in receiving HRT could increase the long-term risk of osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease and dementia.

From BBC • Jan. 28, 2026

“As a result, your metabolism slows. Some of my clients also have osteoporosis or arthritis, others have balance issues. Building muscle helps protect our joints, our balance — we work to get all that back.”

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 1, 2026

Sonny had a bad heart, and Deborah had arthritis, osteoporosis, nerve deafness, anxiety, and depression.

From "The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks" by Rebecca Skloot