dumb ague

American  

noun

Pathology.

1. an irregular form of intermittent malarial fever, lacking the usual chill.

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dumb ague British  

noun

1. an irregular form of malarial fever (ague) lacking the typically symptomatic chill

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Etymology

Origin of dumb ague

First recorded in 1780–90

Example Sentences

Besides, he's ben on the flat of his back off and on all summer, with dumb ague.

From Project Gutenberg

Somerset administered two drams, one after the other, to the man with the chin-beard; who then, somewhat restored, began to confound himself in apologies for what he called his miserable nervousness, the result, he said, of a long course of dumb ague; and having taken leave with a hand that still sweated and trembled, he gingerly resumed his burthen and departed.

From Project Gutenberg

I am of a very nervous habit; a long course of the dumb ague has undermined my constitution.

From Project Gutenberg

Deceased complained of dumb ague, but witness had never been able to detect any positive disease.

From Project Gutenberg

I got back all right with the exception of the dumb ague, which took me just as I got ready to leave Fort Gibson.

From Project Gutenberg