Aphthoid

/ˈæfθɔɪd/ adjective

Definition

Resembling or having the characteristics of an aphtha or mouth ulcer; ulcer-like in appearance.

Etymology

From Greek aphtha (blister, ulcer) + -oid (resembling). The suffix -oid creates an adjective meaning 'like' or 'resembling.'

Kelly Says

The suffix '-oid' is endlessly useful in medicine because it lets doctors say 'looks like a mouth ulcer' without committing to a diagnosis—a brilliant linguistic hedge when diseases mimic each other!

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