How Do You Spell PYREXIAL?

Pronunciation: [pa͡ɪɹˈɛksɪəl] (IPA)

The word "Pyrexial" is spelled with a "y" rather than an "i" because it is derived from the medical term "Pyrexia," which means fever. The "y" reflects the Greek letter "upsilon" and makes the word easier to pronounce, as it mimics the "i" sound commonly used in English words. Its IPA phonetic transcription is /paɪˈrɛksɪəl/, which shows that it is pronounced with a long "i" sound, followed by the "e" sound, and ending in the "l" sound.

PYREXIAL Meaning and Definition

1. Pyrexial is an adjective that refers to a condition characterized by fever or elevated body temperature. Derived from the Latin word "pyrexia," which means fever, pyrexial describes the state of having an abnormally high body temperature, typically above the normal range of 36.5-37.5 degrees Celsius (97.7-99.5 degrees Fahrenheit).

   When an individual experiences a pyrexial episode, their immune system responds to an infection, inflammation, or other internal disruptions by increasing the body's core temperature. This elevated temperature aids in the defense against pathogens, as it enhances the activity of immune cells and inhibits the growth of certain microbes.

   The term pyrexial can also be used to describe an object or substance that has the capability to generate or retain heat. For example, a pyrexial container is able to withstand high temperatures without breaking due to its unique material composition. The trademarked Pyrex glassware, for instance, is known for its resistance to thermal shock and can be used safely in ovens, microwaves, and freezers.

   In medical literature, pyrexial is commonly employed to describe patients with a body temperature above the normal range due to an infection, inflammation, or other febrile conditions. An accurate measurement of body temperature is crucial in diagnosing and monitoring such cases, as it aids healthcare professionals in determining the appropriate treatment plan.

2. Relating to fever; febrile pyretic, feverish.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

3. Of or belonging to fever; feverish.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for PYREXIAL

• pyre xial

Etymology of PYREXIAL

The word "pyrexial" is derived from the Greek word "pyréxis" (πυρεξίς), which means fever. The suffix "-al" is added to form an adjective, turning "pyréxis" into "pyrexial". Thus, "pyrexial" refers to something related to or characterized by having a fever.