noun

diphtheria

diphtheria

The vaccine protects children against diphtheria.

The vaccine protects children against diphtheria.

((noun)) a serious infectious disease The vaccine protects against diphtheria.

Synonyms: (none common); Related diseases: tetanus, pertussis

From Greek 'diphthera' (prepared hide, leather), referring to the leathery membrane that forms in the throat.

Associate the 'diph-' sound with a 'deep' and serious throat infection.

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