symptom

noun

symp·tom | \ ˈsim(p)-təm

Definition of symptom

1a : subjective evidence of disease or physical disturbance broadly : something that indicates the presence of bodily disorder

b : an evident reaction by a plant to a pathogen

2a : something that indicates the existence of something else symptoms of an inner turmoil

b : a slight indication : trace

Other Words from symptom Choose the Right Synonym More Example Sentences Learn More about symptom

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Choose the Right Synonym for symptom

sign, mark, token, note, symptom mean a discernible indication of what is not itself directly perceptible. sign applies to any indication to be perceived by the senses or the reason. encouraging signs for the economy mark suggests something impressed on or inherently characteristic of a thing often in contrast to general outward appearance. a mark of a good upbringing token applies to something that serves as a proof of something intangible. this gift is a token of our esteem note suggests a distinguishing mark or characteristic. a note of irony in her writing symptom suggests an outward indication of an internal change or condition. rampant crime is a symptom of that city's decay

Examples of symptom in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

For example, mistletoe berries can kill an animal with just one or two bites, lilies can cause kidney failure and excess urination, and holly will have your pet with symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain. — Elizabeth Gulino, House Beautiful, "These Are The Most Pet-Friendly Plants For Your Home," 6 Mar. 2019 On January 16, 21-year-old Washington State quarterback Tyler Hilinski took his own life after experiencing early symptoms of CTE. — Maude Campbell, Popular Mechanics, "The Complete History of the Autopsy," 26 Dec. 2018 All employees in that area were relocated to a safe place, and employees experiencing symptoms were treated onsite. — Megan Geuss, Ars Technica, "Amazon “automated machine” punctures bear spray can, 24 employees hospitalized," 6 Dec. 2018 The 74-page report stated that more than an hour passed between when McNair began experiencing symptoms of heatstroke and when school officials called 911 to report a medical emergency. — David Ginsburg, The Seattle Times, "Board recommends Durkin to return as Maryland football coach," 31 Oct. 2018 Teaching assistant Tasha first experienced symptoms earlier this year when her arm went numb. — Fox News, "Sisters diagnosed with rare disease weeks apart recovering from brain surgeries," 28 Sep. 2018 Those who experience the more severe symptoms should head to the hospital. — Andres Picon, BostonGlobe.com, "7 tips for staying cool in this horrible heat," 5 July 2018 Those who experience symptoms of West Nile Virus are urged to contact their medical provider. — Mary Spicuzza, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, "Mosquitoes test positive for West Nile virus in Milwaukee County: Here's how to protect yourself," 29 June 2018 During the offseason, the first baseman started experiencing symptoms similar to the ones that sidelined him for more than a month last season with the RailCats. — Michael Osipoff, Post-Tribune, "No ill effects: Alex Crosby overcomes mysterious ailment to become RailCats mainstay," 20 June 2018

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

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Last Updated

21 Mar 2019

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Time Traveler for symptom

The first known use of symptom was in 1541

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More Definitions for symptom

symptom

noun

English Language Learners Definition of symptom

: a change in the body or mind which indicates that a disease is present

: a change which shows that something bad exists : a sign of something bad

See the full definition for symptom in the English Language Learners Dictionary

symptom

noun

symp·tom | \ ˈsimp-təm

Kids Definition of symptom

1 : a noticeable change in the body or its functions that indicates the presence of a disease or other disorder

2 : indication sense 2, sign Loss of jobs is a symptom of a weakening economy.

symptom

noun

symp·tom | \ ˈsim(p)-təm

Medical Definition of symptom

: subjective evidence of disease or physical disturbance observed by the patient headache is a symptom of many diseases visual disturbances may be a symptom of retinal arteriosclerosis broadly : something that indicates the presence of a physical disorder — compare sign sense 2