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Definition of polio

polio

/ˈpoʊ.li.oʊ/
po · li · o
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polio Lexical Profile

polio Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

An acute, highly contagious viral infectious disease that attacks the central nervous system and spinal cord, sometimes resulting in temporary or permanent paralysis and muscular atrophy.

Example

"Widespread childhood vaccination campaigns have nearly eradicated polio across the globe."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for polio

• Rhymes for polio

• Nearby Words

policyholder
policymaker
policymaking
polio
poliovirus
polish
polished

Word Origin & Etymology

Shortened in the early 20th century from 'poliomyelitis', coined from Ancient Greek 'polios' (meaning 'gray') and 'myelos' (meaning 'marrow' or 'spinal cord'), referring to the inflammation of the gray matter of the spinal cord.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Polio. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/polio
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