Psychosomatic
/ˌsaɪ.koʊ.səˈmæt.ɪk/noun
Relating to a physical illness or condition caused or aggravated by a mental factor.
Did you know?The term 'psychosomatic' reveals the ancient belief that the mind and body are intricately linked, echoing centuries of healing practices that viewed health as a balance of both spirit and flesh.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
ψυχή (psychē)
“Soul or spirit, embodying the essence of being and life.”
Ancient Greek
Greek
σώμα (sōma)
“Body, representing the physical vessel of existence.”
19th Century
German
Psychosomatik
“The study of the connections between mind and body, popularized in early medical texts.”
20th Century
English
Psychosomatic
“The modern term used to describe physical ailments that stem from mental or emotional origins.”