rheumatoid arthritis

American  

noun

Pathology.

1. a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by inflammation of the joints, frequently accompanied by marked deformities, and ordinarily associated with manifestations of a general, or systemic, affliction.

---

rheumatoid arthritis British  

noun

1. a chronic disease of the musculoskeletal system, characterized by inflammation and swelling of joints (esp joints in the hands, wrists, knees, and feet), muscle weakness, and fatigue

---

rheumatoid arthritis Scientific  

/ ro̅o̅′mə-toid′ /

1. A chronic autoimmune disease characterized by progressive arthritis of several small or medium-sized joints, especially in the hands. Symptoms can include morning stiffness, joint swelling and weakness, and deformity and disability.

---

Etymology

Origin of rheumatoid arthritis

First recorded in 1855–60

Example Sentences

People who are at risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis often experience challenges even before receiving a diagnosis.

From Science Daily • Jun. 1, 2026

The study found that a one year course of the biologic drug abatacept significantly delayed the onset of rheumatoid arthritis, with benefits continuing long after treatment ended.

From Science Daily • Jun. 1, 2026

They say the results provide important evidence that targeted immune therapies can delay rheumatoid arthritis in people at highest risk and support further research into preventive strategies for autoimmune conditions.

From Science Daily • Jun. 1, 2026

IMVT-1402, for rheumatoid arthritis, showed nearly 73% of patients achieved at least 20% improvement in trials.

From Barron's • May 20, 2026

Soraya told me that, ever since her mother’s stroke, every flutter in her chest was a heart attack, every aching joint the onset of rheumatoid arthritis, and every twitch of the eye another stroke.

From "The Kite Runner" by Khaled Hosseini