Fatigue

/fəˈtiːɡ/ noun

Definition

A deep feeling of tiredness or exhaustion, either physical or mental, usually after hard work or stress.

Etymology

From French “fatigue” meaning “weariness,” from Latin “fatigare” meaning “to tire out, weary.” It has long described both bodily and mental exhaustion.

Kelly Says

“Fatigue” is the body’s way of forcing a pause when you try to push beyond your limits for too long. In engineering, “metal fatigue” is when repeated stress quietly weakens a material—exactly what chronic stress can do to people, too.

Ethical Language Guidance

Gender History

Medical discussions of fatigue, especially in conditions like chronic fatigue syndrome and autoimmune diseases, have often dismissed women’s reports as psychosomatic or exaggerated. Gender bias has contributed to underdiagnosis and undertreatment.

Inclusive Usage

Use 'fatigue' as a neutral symptom term and avoid implying it is less credible when reported by women or gender minorities.

Inclusive Alternatives

["tiredness","exhaustion","weariness"]

Empowerment Note

When covering medical history, acknowledge the advocacy of women patients and researchers who pushed for recognition of fatigue-related conditions.

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