spongiform encephalopathy

noun

spon·gi·form encephalopathy | \ ˈspən-ji-ˌfȯrm-

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Definition of spongiform encephalopathy

: any of various degenerative diseases of the brain characterized by the development of porous spongelike lesions in brain tissue and by deterioration in neurological functioning specifically : prion disease

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These spongiform encephalopathies serve as a negative selection pressure against cannibalism. — National Geographic, "Cannibalism—the Ultimate Taboo—Is Surprisingly Common," 19 Feb. 2017 By consuming meat from these cows, the spongiform encephalopathy disease was transmitted to humans. — National Geographic, "Cannibalism—the Ultimate Taboo—Is Surprisingly Common," 19 Feb. 2017

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'spongiform encephalopathy.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

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The first known use of spongiform encephalopathy was in 1960

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spongiform encephalopathy

noun

Medical Definition of spongiform encephalopathy

: any of various degenerative diseases of the brain characterized by the development of porous spongelike lesions in brain tissue and by deterioration in neurological functioning specifically : prion disease

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