subacute

adjective

sub·​acute ˌsəb-ə-ˈkyüt 

1

: having a tapered but not sharply pointed form

subacute leaves

2

a

: falling between acute and chronic in character especially when closer to acute

subacute endocarditis

b

: less marked in severity or duration than a corresponding acute state

subacute pain

subacutely adverb

Examples of subacute in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

In those who develop symptoms, the infection is generally subacute. —Brigid Dwyer, Verywell Health, 2 July 2024

An acute cough lasts no longer than three weeks, while a subacute cough lasts from three to eight weeks.2 Acute coughs also tend to be less serious, clear up on their own, and do not require a visit to a healthcare provider. —Claire Gillespie, Health, 17 Mar. 2024

In 2022, the CDC published clinical practice guidelines for healthcare providers that treat acute, subacute and chronic pain. —Omer Awan, Forbes, 25 Feb. 2024

Now home to more than 300 residents receiving subacute skilled care, long-term custodial care and Alzheimer’s special care, the facility has gone through major expansions in 1964, 1979, and 1991. —Chicago Tribune, 14 July 2023

My anecdotal experience tends to line up with research on acupuncture’s efficacy: There’s moderate evidence to suggest acupuncture provides relief of chronic and subacute low-back pain when compared with a placebo, according to a recent meta-analysis. —Amy Wilkinson, Women's Health, 12 July 2023

The guidelines affect acute, subacute, and chronic pain, but do not apply to pain from certain conditions like sickle cell disease or cancer. —Korin Miller, Health, 26 Feb. 2023

Less costly long-term facilities, called subacute care or institutions for the mentally disabled (IMDs), are chronically backed up. —Doug Smithsenior Writer, Los Angeles Times, 12 Dec. 2022

Evans, who works in a subacute unit for long-term care patients on ventilators, said there have been times when her unit hasn’t had enough towels, wipes and diapers for patients. —Jessica Flores, San Francisco Chronicle, 22 June 2022

Word History

First Known Use

1752, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing subacute

• subacute sclerosing panencephalitis

Rhymes for subacute

• absolute
• arrowroot
• attribute
• bitterroot
• constitute
• convolute
• destitute
• disrepute
• dissolute
• execute
• institute
• involute

Medical Definition

subacute

adjective

sub·​acute ˌsəb-ə-ˈkyüt 

1

: falling between acute and chronic in character especially when closer to acute

subacute endocarditis

2

: less marked in severity or duration than a corresponding acute state

subacute pain

subacutely adverb