CultureAugust 24, 2026

paleopathological

pay-lee-oh-path-uh-LOJ-ih-kul

Definition

Relating to the study of ancient diseases through the examination of preserved remains, such as bones or mummies.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek 'palaios' (ancient), 'pathos' (suffering/disease), and 'logos' (study of). It is a modern scientific term formed by combining these roots to describe the medical history of past populations.

In the news

The author uses this term to explain that there is a lack of scientific evidence from ancient remains to definitively confirm the nature or impact of the Antonine Plague.

How the first pandemic in history shook the Roman Empire

Read the full article ↗

ZME Science

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