breakbone fever

American  

[breyk-bohn] / ˈbreɪkˌboʊn /

noun

Pathology.

1. dengue.

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breakbone fever British  

/ ˈbreɪkˌbəʊn /

noun

1. another name for dengue

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Etymology

Origin of breakbone fever

1860–65; break + bone, so called because it makes the bones ache as if breaking at the joints

Example Sentences

Its alias, “breakbone fever,” provides a grim glimpse into what it can feel like.

From Los Angeles Times

It can cause excruciating joint pain; is also known by the grim nickname “breakbone fever.”

From New York Times

Also known as “breakbone fever,” dengue fever is an illness not to be wished upon a worst enemy.

From Salon

It’s commonly known as “breakbone fever” for a reason, McMeniman said.

From Seattle Times

More than 5 million people were infected with dengue — also known as “breakbone fever” for the severe joint and muscle pain it causes — around the world in 2019.

From New York Times