The word "inanition" is spelled as [ɪˌnænˈɪʃən]. It is a noun that means extreme exhaustion or emptiness caused by lack of food or nourishment. The word is derived from the Latin word "inanitio" which means emptiness. The spelling of "inanition" can be understood phonetically by breaking down its syllables. The stress falls on the third syllable, "NISH" and the first syllable "IN" is pronounced as "ih". The "AN" in the second syllable is pronounced as "æ" like in "cat".
Inanition is a noun that refers to a state of extreme exhaustion or weakness caused by lack of nourishment or intense physical or mental exertion. It is derived from the Latin word inanitio, which means emptiness or hollowness.
When used in the context of lack of nourishment, inanition describes a condition characterized by severe malnutrition or starvation, resulting from a prolonged deficiency of essential nutrients, such as proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. Inanition can lead to significant weight loss, muscle wasting, weakness, and a compromised immune system, making individuals vulnerable to various diseases and infections.
The term inanition can also be used metaphorically to describe a state of extreme mental or physical exhaustion resulting from intense or prolonged exertion. This could refer to physical exhaustion from demanding physical activities or mental exhaustion caused by excessive mental work or stress. In such cases, inanition encompasses a feeling of emptiness or depletion of energy due to the depletion of physical or mental resources.
Overall, inanition encompasses the state of extreme exhaustion, weakness, and depletion experienced by individuals who lack proper nourishment or have expended their physical or mental resources to an excessive degree.
Exhaustion from lack of food or defect in assimilation.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Emptiness; want of fulness; starvation.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "inanition" originates from the Latin term "inanitio", which in turn comes from the verb "inanire" meaning "to make empty" or "to exhaust". The Latin word is derived from the adjective "inane", meaning "empty" or "void". Over time, "inanition" transitioned into English, retaining its original meaning of "exhaustion" or "emptiness", particularly in reference to lack of nutrition or starvation.