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.

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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

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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.

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Etymology

Origin of rheumatoid arthritis

First recorded in 1855–60

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

rheumatoid arthritis

For Vaknine, a holistic wellness coach who was diagnosed with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis at age 2, selling their home and traveling the world carries even deeper meaning.

From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 22, 2026

Experts say the approach could potentially treat similar disorders including multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis.

From BBC ● Jun. 11, 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

The study found that abatacept worked best in people with the highest likelihood of developing rheumatoid arthritis.

From Science Daily ● Jun. 1, 2026

It is what physicians must now do for patients with intractable cancer, severe rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, stroke, and advanced cirrhosis.

From "The Lives of a Cell" by Lewis Thomas