Cardiology
/ˌkɑːr.diˈɒl.ə.dʒi/noun
The branch of medicine that deals with diseases and abnormalities of the heart.
Did you know?The term 'cardiology' combines Greek roots that literally mean 'study of the heart', revealing how ancient cultures viewed the heart as the center of emotion and life.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
kardia
“Heart, considered the seat of emotion and life.”
Ancient Greek
Greek
logia
“Study or discourse, often associated with the systematic exploration of knowledge.”
Middle Ages
Latin
cardiologia
“The study of the heart, first used in medical texts.”
17th Century
English
cardiology
“Emerging as a formal medical field, focusing on heart health and diseases.”
Modern English
English
cardiology
“The specialized branch of medicine dedicated to the heart and its functions.”
Explore more surprising origins