asymptomatic
ay-simp-tuh-MAT-ik
/ˌeɪsɪmptəˈmætɪk/
Producing or showing no symptoms of disease, despite harboring an infection or condition.
Indicates that a disease is present internally, even though the host feels completely healthy outwardly.
The story behind the word. Formed by adding the Greek prefix 'a-' (without) to 'symptoma' (chance occurrence or sign), which itself derives from 'syn-' (together) and 'piptin' (to fall). Literally translates to 'without accompanying signs falling together'.
Word relationships
- symptom-free: 'Symptom-free' is a plain English description; 'asymptomatic' is the clinical term.
- subclinical: 'Subclinical' implies illness present below detectable clinical signs, closely matching asymptomatic.
- symptomatic: Symptomatic means exhibiting visible or felt signs of disease.
Commonly confused with
- healthy: Healthy means free of disease; asymptomatic means sick or infected, but showing no outward signs.
Word family
- symptom (noun): A physical or mental feature indicating a condition.
- asymptomatically (adverb): In a manner displaying no symptoms.
Collocations
- asymptomatic infection
- asymptomatic patient
- remain asymptomatic
- asymptomatic carrier
Example sentences
- "Asymptomatic carriers can unknowingly transmit the virus to vulnerable populations." Epidemiology.
- "Routine screening uncovered an asymptomatic renal tumor at an early, highly treatable stage." Clinical screening.
Memory hook
A-symptomatic: 'A' means WITHOUT. Without symptoms! A- = No. No symptoms.
When not to use
Do not use 'asymptomatic' to describe someone who is genuinely healthy and free of disease.
Fun facts
- Typhoid Mary was a famous asymptomatic carrier who spread typhoid fever to dozens of people while feeling completely healthy herself.
Related words
Explore more words
carrier, prophylactic, latent, diagnosis, pathogen, quarantine
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