Meningitis

meningitis

noun me-nin-GHEE-tis Rare

Origin: from Latin/Greek meninx (membrane) + -itis

Also means

inflammation of the meninges

Usage Note

Meningitis is a life-threatening inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord, caused by bacteria or viruses. It is singular and used with the definite article die Meningitis. A stiff neck (Nackensteifigkeit) is a key warning sign.

Examples

"Bei Verdacht auf Meningitis muss man sofort in die Notaufnahme."

Natural Translation

If meningitis is suspected, you must go to the emergency room immediately.

Literal Translation

At suspicion of meningitis must one immediately into the emergency room.

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