Graves' disease

American  

[greyvz] / greɪvz /

noun

Pathology.

1. a disease characterized by an enlarged thyroid, a rapid pulse, and increased basal metabolism due to excessive thyroid secretion; exophthalmic goiter.

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Graves' disease British  

/ ɡreɪvz /

noun

1. another name for exophthalmic goitre

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Graves' disease Scientific  

/ grāvz /

1. An autoimmune disease of the thyroid gland characterized by excessive production of thyroid hormone, goiter, protrusion of the eyeballs (exophthalmos), and symptoms of hyperthyroidism, such as rapid heartbeat and weight loss. The disease is named after its discoverer, Irish physician Robert James Graves (1796–1853).

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Etymology

Origin of Graves' disease

First recorded in 1865–70; named after R. J. Graves (1796–1853), Irish physician

Example Sentences

Immunovant reported a $147.9 million quarterly loss, but its cash position supports IMVT-1402 launch in Graves’ disease.

From Barron's • May 20, 2026

Crucially for investors, Immunovant believes its cash position provides sufficient runway to fund the launch of IMVT-1402 for Graves’ disease.

From Barron's • May 20, 2026

Worse, she had begun to suffer symptoms of what was ultimately diagnosed as Graves’ disease, a serious autoimmune condition that attacks the thyroid.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 24, 2026

Moriarty, 30, revealed to her Instagram followers on Friday that she was diagnosed last month with Graves’ disease, an autoimmune disorder in which the thyroid becomes overactive.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 16, 2025

How could disappointment in love play a role in the causation of Graves' disease?

From Origin and Nature of Emotions by Crile, George W. (Washington)