conjunctivitis

noun

con·​junc·​ti·​vi·​tis kən-ˌjəŋ(k)-ti-ˈvī-təs How to pronounce conjunctivitis (audio)
: inflammation of the conjunctiva

Examples of conjunctivitis 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.
Allergic conjunctivitis is an inflammatory reaction of the conjunctiva, the clear skin on the surface of the eye. Neelam Patadia, The Conversation, 27 May 2026 Other common diagnoses included chemical burns, which made up about 14%; and skin or eye irritation, including dermatitis and conjunctivitis, at around 11%. Katia Hetter, CNN Money, 1 May 2026 Bird flu is not a big concern for songbirds, but other diseases, such as conjunctivitis, can affect them. Rebecca Jones, Southern Living, 29 Apr. 2026 Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis). Joseph Buczek, CBS News, 23 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for conjunctivitis

Word History

First Known Use

1835, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of conjunctivitis was in 1835

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Cite this Entry

“Conjunctivitis.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/conjunctivitis. Accessed 8 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

conjunctivitis

noun
con·​junc·​ti·​vi·​tis kən-ˌjəŋ(k)-ti-ˈvīt-əs How to pronounce conjunctivitis (audio)
: inflammation of the conjunctiva : pinkeye

Medical Definition

conjunctivitis

noun
con·​junc·​ti·​vi·​tis kən-ˌjəŋ(k)-ti-ˈvīt-əs How to pronounce conjunctivitis (audio)
: inflammation of the conjunctiva that is typically marked by pinkness or redness of the sclera and by itching, burning, irritation, discharge, or excessive tearing of the eye and that is typically caused by pathogenic microorganisms (such as bacteria or viruses), allergens, or irritants see pink eye

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