lupus etymology

Etymology of Lupus

The word "lupus" derives from Latin, meaning "wolf." It is a cognate of the Greek word "lýkos" (λύκος), also meaning "wolf."

Meaning of Lupus

In the medical context, lupus refers to a group of systemic autoimmune diseases that affect multiple organs and tissues. The most common type is systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), which can affect the skin, joints, kidneys, and other organs.

Origin of Lupus

The exact origin of the term "lupus" in medicine is uncertain. However, it is believed to have been first used in the 13th century to describe a skin condition characterized by red, scaly patches that resembled the appearance of wolf bites.

Over time, the term lupus came to be used more broadly to describe a range of autoimmune conditions. The term "erythematosus" was added in the 19th century to refer to the characteristic facial rash that is a symptom of SLE.

Other Uses of "Lupus"

In addition to its medical use, the word "lupus" has also been used in other contexts, including:

  • Astronomy: Lupus is the name of a constellation in the southern hemisphere.
  • Mythology: In Roman mythology, Lupus is the wolf that suckled Romulus and Remus, the founders of Rome.
  • Heraldry: The wolf is often depicted in heraldry, representing loyalty and courage.

lupus relate terms

  • wolf

    Etymology Old English wulf Proto Germanic wulfaz Proto Indo European root wĺ̥kʷ

  • lupin

    Etymology The word lupin comes from the Latin lupus which means wolf This is like

  • wolf

    Etymology Old English wulf Proto Germanic wulfaz Proto Indo European root wĺ̥kʷ

  • lupus

    Etymology of Lupus The word lupus derives from Latin meaning wolf It is a cognate o

  • serval

    Etymology The word serval comes from the Latin servus meaning slave referring to

  • Guadalcanal

    Etymology The name Guadalcanal is derived from two words in the local Nggela language

  • father

    Etymology The word father comes from the Proto Indo European root ph₂tḗr which a

  • coefficient

    Etymology The word coefficient comes from the Latin word cohaerere meaning to stic

  • recreation

    Etymology The word recreation derives from the Latin recreatio meaning restoration

  • pristine

    Etymology Origin French pristine from Latin pristinus meaning former ancient Root

  • gang

    Etymology Early 19th century shortened form of gangrel from Middle English gangrel f

  • suppose

    Etymology Meaning The study of the origin and development of words Origin Greek ety

  • hegemony

    Etymology Greek ἡγεμονία hēgemonía Latin hegemonia Meaning Supremac