HealthJuly 18, 2026

dysphoria

dɪsˈfɔːriə

Definition

A psychological state characterized by intense feelings of unease, dissatisfaction, or emotional distress.

Etymology

The word originates from the Greek 'dysphoros,' meaning 'hard to bear,' which combines 'dys-' (bad or difficult) and 'pherein' (to bear or carry). It entered English in the 17th century to describe a general state of restlessness or malaise.

In the news

In the article, the term is used in the context of clinical gender medicine, referring to the distress experienced by youth who require evidence-based care. It highlights the focus of professional organizations that research and support individuals navigating these complex emotional and identity-related experiences.

STAT readers on the value of primary care, obesity as a disease, and more

Read the full article ↗

STAT

Related words

Learn a word like this every day

Meet one new word every morning.

Newspoken pulls one carefully chosen word from the day’s news — with a clear definition, context, and light review that makes it stick. Get it on your phone.

Not for marketing. One email on launch day.