chronic fatigue syndrome

American  

noun

1. a viral disease of the immune system, usually characterized by debilitating fatigue and flu-like symptoms.

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chronic fatigue syndrome British  

noun

1.  CFS.  another name for myalgic encephalopathy

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chronic fatigue syndrome Scientific  

1. A syndrome characterized by debilitating fatigue and a combination of flulike symptoms such as sore throat, swollen lymph glands, low-grade fever, headache, and muscle pain or weakness. The cause is unknown.

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chronic fatigue syndrome Cultural  

1. A condition characterized by fatigue over an extended period, sometimes accompanied by neurologic abnormalities. The cause of this syndrome is unknown.

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Etymology

Origin of chronic fatigue syndrome

First recorded in 1988

Example Sentences

Healthy individuals had more of these bacteria than people with conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, obesity, and chronic fatigue syndrome.

From Science Daily • Feb. 14, 2026

“You’re a kid and you have no authority over anyone,” said Lily, who has POTS, EDS, chronic fatigue syndrome, and chronic pain.

From Slate • Sep. 15, 2025

Diagnosed with chronic fatigue syndrome, as well as Pots - a condition which causes dizziness - and hypermobility, she struggled with attendance and anxiety.

From BBC • Aug. 13, 2025

It is similar to chronic fatigue syndrome and can range from mild to debilitating.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 18, 2024

There are eating disorders, shingles, skin problems, kidney disease, Alzheimer's, senility, mental illness, addictions, chronic fatigue syndrome, aids.

From How and When to Be Your Own Doctor by Solomon, Steve