rheumatoid arthritis
noun Pathology.
a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by inflammation of the joints, frequently accompanied by marked deformities, and ordinarily associated with manifestations of a general, or systemic, affliction.
Origin of rheumatoid arthritis
First recorded in 1855–60
Words nearby rheumatoid arthritis
rheumatics,
rheumatid,
rheumatism,
rheumatism-root,
rheumatoid,
rheumatoid arthritis,
rheumatoid factor,
rheumatoid nodule,
rheumatoid spondylitis,
rheumatologist,
rheumatology
Example sentences from the Web for rheumatoid arthritis
Abbott, a global health-care company, produces everything from feeding tubes to rheumatoid-arthritis medication.
British Dictionary definitions for rheumatoid arthritis
rheumatoid arthritis
noun
a chronic disease of the musculoskeletal system, characterized by inflammation and swelling of joints (esp joints in the hands, wrists, knees, and feet), muscle weakness, and fatigue
Medical definitions for rheumatoid arthritis
rheumatoid arthritis
n.
A chronic, inflammatory arthritis, commonly involving the hands and feet, characterized by joint pain, stiffness, and weakness that can lead to deformity and disability.
arthritis deformans
Scientific definitions for rheumatoid arthritis
rheumatoid arthritis
[ rōō′mə-toid′ ]
A chronic autoimmune disease characterized by progressive arthritis of several small or medium-sized joints, especially in the hands. Symptoms can include morning stiffness, joint swelling and weakness, and deformity and disability.