Definition

Noun: * Infectious Mononucleosis: An acute infectious disease, primarily affecting adolescents and young adults, caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). It is characterized by symptoms such as fever, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes (especially in the neck), and fatigue. The nickname "kissing disease" originates from the belief that the virus can be transmitted through saliva, such as by kissing.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • After weeks of fatigue and a persistent sore throat, the doctor diagnosed him with the kissing disease.
  • Many college students are susceptible to kissing disease due to close living quarters and social contact.
  • "I can't go out tonight; I think I have kissing disease," she said, referring to her mononucleosis.

Advanced Usage

• Medical Context: While "kissing disease" is a common colloquial term, the formal medical terms are infectious mononucleosis or simply mono. It is used informally even in some patient-facing medical communications.
  • The pamphlet explained that "mono," often called the kissing disease, requires plenty of rest.

Variants and Related Words

• Mononucleosis (n): The full, formal name for the disease, often shortened to "mono."
• Mono (n): The common abbreviated form of mononucleosis.
• Glandular Fever (n): A term used primarily in British English for the same illness.

Synonyms

• Infectious Mononucleosis: The formal synonym.
• Mono: The common short form.
• Glandular Fever: (Chiefly British English).

Notes on Meaning

• The term kissing disease specifically highlights the perceived common mode of transmission (saliva), though the virus can also spread through sharing drinks, utensils, or personal items. It is not exclusively transmitted by kissing.
• It is an informal, non-technical term. In formal writing or medical diagnosis, "infectious mononucleosis" or "mono" is preferred.

Noun

1. an acute disease characterized by fever and swollen lymph nodes and an abnormal increase of mononuclear leucocytes or monocytes in the bloodstream; not highly contagious; some believe it can be transmitted by kissing