noun

conjunctivitis

kuhn-junk-tih-VY-tis

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Conjunctivitis (noun) means an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the membrane covering the front of the eye and the inside of the eyelids, often caused by infection. Example: “The doctor diagnosed conjunctivitis after examining her red, itchy eyes.”

noun

medical An inflammation of the conjunctiva, the membrane covering the front of the eye and the inside of the eyelids, often caused by infection.

"The doctor diagnosed conjunctivitis after examining her red, itchy eyes."

"Conjunctivitis can spread quickly among young children at school."

"He was given eye drops to treat his conjunctivitis."

How to use conjunctivitis

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishAn eye infection that makes the eye red, itchy and inflamed.

When to use it

It is the formal medical term, while pinkeye is the everyday equivalent.

Memory tip

The plural forms are irregular, with conjunctivitides alongside conjunctivitises, so it is safest to keep the word uncountable in everyday use.

Trace the full origin ↓

Common pairings

develop conjunctivitis viral conjunctivitis a case of conjunctivitis treat conjunctivitis

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

Test yourself on “conjunctivitis” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The doctor diagnosed _____ after examining her red, itchy eyes.

Etymology

The word is formed from conjunctiva, the name of the eye membrane, with the medical suffix -itis added to show inflammation.

Origin: English

Synonyms

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pinkeye

Rhymes for conjunctivitis

itis gastritis sinusitis hepatitis arthritis dermatitis laryngitis bronchitis meningitis peritonitis tonsillitis appendicitis

See all rhymes for conjunctivitis →

Frequently asked questions

What causes conjunctivitis?

It is an inflammation of the conjunctiva that is often caused by infection.

Is conjunctivitis the same as pinkeye?

Yes, pinkeye is a common synonym for conjunctivitis.

Is conjunctivitis contagious?

Cases caused by infection can spread from person to person, which is why affected eyes should be treated and kept clean.

What is the meaning of conjunctivitis?

"conjunctivitis" (noun) means an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the membrane covering the front of the eye and the inside of the eyelids, often caused by infection.