scurvy Definition
a disease caused by a lack of vitamin C, characterized by weakness, anemia, and spongy gums.
Using scurvy: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "scurvy" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
Sailors used to suffer from scurvy due to a lack of fresh fruits and vegetables on long voyages.
Example
The doctor diagnosed the patient with scurvy due to their poor diet.
Example
Vitamin C supplements can help prevent scurvy.
scurvy Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for scurvy
- avitaminosis
- barlow's disease
- moeller's disease
Phrases with scurvy
Example
He is a scurvy knave who cannot be trusted.
scurvy grass
a plant that is high in vitamin C and was historically used to prevent and treat scurvy
Example
Scurvy grass was a common remedy for scurvy among sailors.
Example
He's nothing but a scurvy dog who can't be relied upon.
Summary: scurvy in Brief
Scurvy [ˈskɜːrvi] is a disease caused by a lack of vitamin C, resulting in symptoms such as weakness, anemia, and spongy gums. It was common among sailors who lacked fresh fruits and vegetables on long voyages. 'Scurvy knave' is an insulting term for a dishonest person, while 'scurvy grass' is a plant high in vitamin C that was used to prevent and treat scurvy.
