rheumatism

American  

[roo-muh-tiz-uhm] / ˈru məˌtɪz əm /

noun

Pathology.

1. any disorder of the extremities or back, characterized by pain and stiffness.

2. rheumatic fever.

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rheumatism British  

/ ˈruːməˌtɪzəm /

noun

1. any painful disorder of joints, muscles, or connective tissue Compare arthritis fibrositis

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Etymology

Origin of rheumatism

1595–1605; < Latin rheumatismus catarrh, rheum < Greek rheumatismós, equivalent to rheumat- (stem of rheûma; rheum ) + -ismos -ism

Compare meaning

How does rheumatism compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• rheumatism vs. arthritis

Example Sentences

Regardless of the water’s source, for centuries people believed that it cured rheumatism’s stiff joints, as well as skin problems, respiratory illnesses, menstrual cramps, fevers, and so on.

From Literature

The poor workmen look exhausted, and I’ve heard that some of them have come down with rheumatism.

From Literature

“I sell many good oils for cleaning, tinctures for rheumatism, plague, soreness, warts, and bad luck.”

From Literature

A large, robust, athletic man, Washington was plagued by headaches, stomach troubles, and bouts of rheumatism—a painful condition affecting the joints such as knees and elbows.

From Literature

Bone is maintained via delicate balance between formation and resorption, and its imbalance leads to bone related diseases like osteoporosis rheumatism and periodontitis.

From Science Daily