Rickets

Pronunciation: /ˈrɪkɪts/

Definitions of rickets

noun a disease caused by a deficiency of vitamin D, calcium, or phosphate, characterized by imperfect calcification, softening, and distortion of the bones typically resulting in bow legs

Example Sentences

A1 Rickets is a disease caused by a lack of vitamin D.

A2 Children in developing countries are more likely to suffer from rickets due to poor nutrition.

B1 Doctors can diagnose rickets by conducting a physical examination and blood tests.

B2 Treatment for rickets usually involves vitamin D supplements and exposure to sunlight.

C1 Severe cases of rickets can lead to deformities in the bones and stunted growth.

C2 Historically, rickets was a common health problem in industrialized cities during the Industrial Revolution.

Examples of rickets in a Sentence

formal Rickets is a medical condition caused by a deficiency in vitamin D, leading to weakened bones.

informal My cousin was diagnosed with rickets because he never goes outside to get sunlight.

slang I heard that kid has got rickets from not eating his vegetables!

figurative The neglect of proper care for the environment can result in the 'rickets' of our planet's ecosystems.

Grammatical Forms of rickets

• plural: rickets
• comparative: more rickets
• superlative: most rickets
• present tense: get rickets
• future tense: will get rickets
• perfect tense: have gotten rickets
• continuous tense: is getting rickets
• singular: rickets
• positive degree: rickets
• infinitive: to get rickets
• gerund: getting rickets
• participle: having rickets

Origin and Evolution of rickets

First Known Use: 1601 year

Language of Origin: Old English

Story behind the word: The word 'rickets' is believed to have originated from the Old English word 'wriecan' which meant 'to twist or bend'. This is likely in reference to the twisted or bent bones that are a characteristic symptom of the disease.

Evolution of the word: Over time, the word 'rickets' has come to specifically refer to a childhood bone disorder caused by a deficiency in vitamin D, calcium, or phosphate. The usage of the word has evolved to be more medically precise in describing this condition.