Laryngitis

Laryngitis

Noun · /ˌlær.ɪnˈdʒaɪ.tɪs/

Definition

Inflammation of the larynx, typically causing hoarseness or loss of voice, and often accompanied by a sore throat and dry cough; usually caused by viral infection, overuse of the voice, or irritants such as cigarette smoke.

Origin

From Greek larynx (the larynx, the voice box) + -itis (a suffix denoting inflammation). Larynx derives from a Greek root related to the throat. The -itis suffix, from Greek, is the standard medical suffix for inflammatory conditions. Used in English from the early 19th century as medical terminology developed.