Langimage
English

coma

|co-ma|

B2

🇺🇸

/ˈkoʊmə/

🇬🇧

/ˈkəʊmə/

deep unconsciousness

Etymology
Etymology Information

'coma' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'kōma,' where 'kōma' meant 'deep sleep.'

Historical Evolution

'kōma' changed from the Latin word 'coma' and eventually became the modern English word 'coma'.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'deep sleep,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a state of prolonged unconsciousness.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a state of deep unconsciousness that lasts for a prolonged or indefinite period, caused especially by severe injury or illness.

The patient has been in a coma for two weeks.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Noun 2

a diffuse cloud of gas and dust surrounding the nucleus of a comet.

The comet's coma was visible through the telescope.

Synonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:41