Definition

Noun: A contagious viral disease, also known medically as rubella, characterized by a mild rash and fever. It is a generally less severe illness than standard measles (rubeola) but poses a significant risk of causing birth defects if contracted by a pregnant woman, especially during the first trimester.

Usage

The term "german measles" is used to name the specific disease. * It is crucial for pregnant women to be vaccinated against german measles. * The child was kept home from school after being diagnosed with german measles. * Public health campaigns aim to eliminate german measles.

Advanced Usage

• The term is considered somewhat dated in formal medical contexts, where "rubella" is preferred. However, "german measles" remains widely understood in general English.
• It can be used attributively (like an adjective) to modify other nouns.
  • The german measles outbreak was contained quickly.
  • She received the german measles vaccine.

Variants and Related Words

• Rubella (n): The formal medical term for german measles.
• Three-day measles (n): Another informal name for the disease, referencing its typical duration.

Synonyms

• Rubella
• Three-day measles

Notes on Different Meanings

• German measles refers specifically to rubella. It is distinct from:
  • Measles (rubeola): A different, often more severe, viral disease.
  • Roseola: A mild viral illness in young children. The modifier "german" is historical and is not related to the country of Germany in a modern context; it is believed to derive from an older English word meaning "similar" or "akin," describing its resemblance to other rash-causing diseases.

Noun

1. a contagious viral disease that is a milder form of measles lasting three or four days; can be damaging to a fetus during the first trimester