asymptomatic
ay-simp-tuh-MAT-ik
/ˌeɪsɪmptəˈmætɪk/
Producing or showing no symptoms.
An asymptomatic person can still be a carrier and spread the disease to others.
The story behind the word. The prefix 'a-' in Greek means 'without' or 'not'. Combined with 'symptom' (which originally meant 'a falling together' or 'accident'), it describes the state of having a condition without the outward signs of it.
Word relationships
- symptomatic: Showing clear signs of illness.
Commonly confused with
- presymptomatic: Asymptomatic means you never get sick; presymptomatic means you aren't sick yet.
Word family
- symptom (noun): A physical or mental feature indicating a condition of disease.
Collocations
- asymptomatic carrier
- asymptomatic spread
- remain asymptomatic
Example sentences
- "The virus was difficult to track because so many infected individuals remained asymptomatic." Disease transmission.
- "Even if you feel healthy, you could be an asymptomatic carrier of the flu." Routine screening.
Memory hook
A-symptomatic = A (No) Symptom. No symptoms.
When not to use
Do not confuse with 'presymptomatic', which refers to someone who will develop symptoms later but hasn't yet.
Fun facts
- Typhoid Mary is the most famous historical example of an asymptomatic carrier; she spread typhoid fever to dozens of people while appearing perfectly healthy.
Related words
Explore more words
carrier, prophylactic, latent, diagnosis, pathogen, quarantine
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