Catarrh
/kəˈtɑːr/noun
An excessive discharge of mucus from the mucous membranes, especially in the respiratory tract.
Did you know?The term 'catarrh' comes from Greek roots meaning 'to flow down,' once believed to be a mystical outpouring of bodily humors.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
καταρρός (katarros)
“A flow down, particularly of bodily fluids.”
Late Latin
Latin
catarrhus
“A medical term for a flowing down, particularly of mucus.”
14th Century
Middle English
catarrhe
“Transmission of mucus or phlegm, often associated with illness.”
Modern English
English
catarrh
“A medical term for excessive mucous discharge, particularly in respiratory contexts.”