anorexia

noun

an·​orex·​ia ˌa-nə-ˈrek-sē-ə 

-ˈrek-shə

1

: loss of appetite especially when prolonged

2

: anorexia nervosa

Examples of anorexia in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Stirling has spoken openly about her struggle with anorexia and how her relationship with health has evolved over time. —Avalon Hester, PEOPLE, 26 Nov. 2025

People with malnutrition, including from eating disorders such as anorexia, are at risk of low blood sugar.5 While some people can fast for days without problems, fasting may trigger low blood sugar in people with other risk factors. —Ruth Jessen Hickman, Health, 9 Nov. 2025

Behind the scenes, Lyon has also been in recovery from anorexia and bulimia for 10 years. —Erin Jensen, USA Today, 7 Nov. 2025

On the more extreme end of the spectrum, calorie counting could spawn problematic eating behaviors or even an eating disorder like bulimia or anorexia. —Caroline Tien, SELF, 4 Nov. 2025

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Middle French anorexie, borrowed from Late Latin anorexia "lack of appetite," borrowed from Greek anorexía, from anórektos "without appetite" + -ia -ia entry 1 — more at anorectic entry 1

First Known Use

1591, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing anorexia

• anorexia nervosa

Rhymes for anorexia

• alexia
• cachexia
• dyslexia
• hyperpyrexia

Kids Definition

anorexia

noun

an·​orex·​ia ˌan-ə-ˈrek-sē-ə 

: anorexia nervosa

Medical Definition

anorexia

noun

an·​orex·​ia ˌan-ə-ˈrek-sē-ə, -ˈrek-shə 

1

: loss of appetite especially when prolonged

2

: anorexia nervosa