SPIRITUS ASPER Meaning and
Definition
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Spiritus asper is a Latin term commonly used in medical contexts to describe a particular type of abnormal breathing sound. The term "spiritus" translates to "breath" or "spirit," while "asper" means "rough" or "harsh." Therefore, spiritus asper literally means "rough breath" or "coarse respiration."
In medical terminology, spiritus asper refers to a distinctive and audible breathing sound that can be observed during a physical examination of a patient's respiratory system. It is usually characterized by a rough, loud, or grating sound produced during the process of inhalation or exhalation. This type of breathing sound typically results from air passing through narrowed or partially obstructed airways, such as those affected by inflammation, mucus buildup, bronchial constriction, or foreign objects.
Spiritus asper can be associated with various respiratory conditions, including bronchitis, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pneumonia, and other lung disorders. The abnormal sound may vary in intensity and pitch, and its exact characteristics often provide valuable clues to the underlying cause. Medical professionals, such as physicians or respiratory therapists, may use a stethoscope to auscultate the chest and listen for spiritus asper as part of their diagnostic process.
Overall, spiritus asper serves as a descriptive term in medical jargon to identify an abnormal respiratory sound that is indicative of certain respiratory ailments or pathologies.
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In Gr. gram., a mark thus placed before certain words beginning with a vowel, to indicate that such should be pronounced like words beginning with vocal h in Eng.; also placed over Gr. P, Eng. r.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for SPIRITUS ASPER
Etymology of SPIRITUS ASPER
The phrase "spiritus asper" originates from Latin.
"Spiritus" translates to "breath" or "spirit" in Latin, deriving from the verb "spirare", meaning "to breathe". In ancient Roman belief, "spiritus" referred to a divine or supernatural force. Over time, the term gained broader connotations and became associated with the soul or life force in various philosophical and religious contexts.
"On the other hand, "asper" translates to "rough" or "harsh" in Latin. In the context of "spiritus asper", "asper" denotes roughness or gravelly sound of the vocal cords when producing the letter "h" in Latin pronunciation.
Combined, "spiritus asper" refers to the "rough breath" or "harsh breathing" symbol, which appears as a diacritical mark above certain letters in Cyrillic alphabets (e.g., Russian and Bulgarian).
