marasmus Definition
- 1a serious medical condition caused by severe malnutrition, in which the body wastes away and vital organs begin to shut down
- 2a state of extreme emaciation or weakness
Using marasmus: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "marasmus" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The child was suffering from marasmus due to lack of proper nutrition.
Example
The patient's marasmus was so severe that he could barely move.
Example
The famine resulted in widespread cases of marasmus among the population.
marasmus Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for marasmus
- emaciation
- cachexia
- atrophy
- wasting
Phrases with marasmus
protein-energy malnutrition
a type of malnutrition characterized by inadequate intake of protein and energy
Example
Marasmus is a form of protein-energy malnutrition.
a type of malnutrition caused by severe protein deficiency
Example
Kwashiorkor is another type of malnutrition that can occur alongside marasmus.
a state of extreme hunger resulting from lack of food
Example
Marasmus can be caused by prolonged starvation.
Origins of marasmus
from Greek 'marasmos', meaning 'wasting away'
Summary: marasmus in Brief
Marasmus [muh-raz-muhs] is a serious medical condition caused by severe malnutrition, characterized by extreme emaciation or weakness. It can result from prolonged starvation and is often accompanied by other types of malnutrition such as kwashiorkor. Examples of its usage include 'The child was suffering from marasmus due to lack of proper nutrition.'