hydrocele
1
9.9
- noun
- /ˈhaɪdrəˌsiːl/
- Specialized
- The surgeon explained that the painless swelling was caused by a hydrocele.
Examples
-
The doctor diagnosed him with a hydrocele last week.
-
The doctor explained that a hydrocele is the accumulation of fluid around the testicle.
-
Doctors confirmed the diagnosis of hydrocele after performing an ultrasound exam.
-
In infants, a hydrocele often resolves without treatment within the first year.
-
A hydrocele can cause swelling in the scrotum.
-
A hydrocele can cause swelling in the scrotum and is usually painless.
-
If you notice any swelling, it might be a hydrocele, and you should see a doctor for evaluation.
How Severe
- Specialized
39
5.6
- Archaic
- Specialized
1
9.9
102
3.7
118
2.5
Surface Forms
Morphology
hydrocele = hydro + cele
Although the word is built from classical medical elements meaning fluid and swelling, the full medical meaning is not transparent to an average B1 learner.
Etymology
The word hydrocele comes from hydro- meaning 'water' and -cele meaning 'swelling' or 'sac'. So a hydrocele is a 'water swelling', which is why it is fluid in a body sac, often in the scrotum.