anorexia

noun

an·​orex·​ia ˌa-nə-ˈrek-sē-ə How to pronounce anorexia (audio)
-ˈrek-shə
1
: loss of appetite especially when prolonged
2

Examples of anorexia in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In the past, Jamil has openly discussed her own journey recovering from anorexia and disordered eating. Rachel Raposas, People.com, 27 Dec. 2024 Lastly, with eating disorders like anorexia or bulimia nervosa, soft, light hair may grow on the face and body. Colleen Doherty, Verywell Health, 18 Dec. 2024 Histories of eating disorders often begin with anorexia mirabilis (the holy loss of appetite), a medieval phenomenon of fasting saints who subsisted on little more than the Eucharist. Anna Shechtman, Harper's Magazine, 2 Mar. 2024 Fewer than half of people with anorexia make full recoveries. Liz Szabo, NBC News, 21 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for anorexia 

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Greek, from a- + orexis appetite, from oregein

First Known Use

1591, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of anorexia was in 1591

Dictionary Entries Near anorexia

Cite this Entry

“Anorexia.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/anorexia. Accessed 20 Jan. 2025.

Kids Definition

anorexia

noun
an·​orex·​ia ˌan-ə-ˈrek-sē-ə How to pronounce anorexia (audio)

Medical Definition

anorexia

noun
1
: loss of appetite especially when prolonged
2

More from Merriam-Webster on anorexia

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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