Definition

Noun * Diarrhea contracted in Mexico or Central America: An informal and humorous term for traveler's diarrhea, specifically associated with visiting Mexico or Central America. It refers to a common gastrointestinal illness often caused by consuming food or water contaminated with unfamiliar bacteria.

Usage

This term is used informally, often humorously, to describe a specific type of illness experienced by travelers. It is typically used after the fact to explain an illness or as a cautionary term. * As a subject: "Montezuma's Revenge kept him in his hotel room for two days." * As an object: "She was afraid of getting Montezuma's Revenge, so she only drank bottled water."

Examples

• "Many tourists worry about contracting Montezuma's Revenge when traveling to certain regions."
• "He joked that his case of Montezuma's Revenge was the most memorable part of his vacation, though not in a good way."
• "To avoid Montezuma's Revenge, it's advised to avoid tap water and uncooked vegetables."

Advanced Usage

• The term is an example of metonymy, where "Montezuma" (the name of the last Aztec emperor) is used to represent Mexico itself.
• It often carries a slightly self-deprecating or ironic tone, acknowledging the illness as an almost expected hazard of travel to that region.

Variants and Related Words

• Traveler's diarrhea (noun): The formal, medical term for the same condition, not specific to any geographic location.
• Delhi belly (noun): A similar informal term for traveler's diarrhea associated with visiting India.
• Tourista (noun): Another informal synonym for traveler's diarrhea.

Synonyms

• Traveler's diarrhea
• The runs (slang)
• The trots (slang)

Related Idioms

• To have a case of...: This is a common collocation used with the term.
  • Example: "Unfortunately, he had a bad case of Montezuma's Revenge halfway through the trip."

Noun

1. diarrhea contracted in Mexico or Central America