Pericolpitis
/ˌpɛr.ɪ.kɒlˈpaɪ.tɪs/noun
An inflammation of the tissues surrounding the vagina.
Did you know?The term combines Greek roots meaning 'danger' and 'vagina', reflecting historical fears and taboos surrounding women's bodies and health.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
περί (peri)
“around, about”
Ancient Greek
Greek
κολπος (kolpos)
“vagina, fold, bosom”
Ancient Greek
Greek
πάθος (pathos)
“suffering, disease”
19th Century
English
pericolpitis
“medical term coined to describe inflammation around the vagina, derived from earlier Greek roots.”
Explore more surprising origins