Rickets

['rɪkɪts]

Definition

(noun.) childhood disease caused by deficiency of vitamin D and sunlight associated with impaired metabolism of calcium and phosphorus.

Typist: Sharif--From WordNet

Definition

(n. pl.) A disease which affects children, and which is characterized by a bulky head, crooked spine and limbs, depressed ribs, enlarged and spongy articular epiphyses, tumid abdomen, and short stature, together with clear and often premature mental faculties. The essential cause of the disease appears to be the nondeposition of earthy salts in the osteoid tissues. Children afflicted with this malady stand and walk unsteadily. Called also rachitis.

Inputed by Leila

Synonyms and Synonymous

n. pl. (Med.) Rachitis, inflammation of the spine.

Editor: Shanna

Definition

n.sing. a disease of children characterised by softness and curvature of the bones.—adv. Rick′etily shakily.—n. Rick′etiness unsteadiness.—adjs. Rick′etly shaky; Rick′ety affected with rickets: feeble unstable.

Inputed by Elizabeth