Glossary
A
abdomen
Part of the body located below the chest. It contains the digestive organs (stomach, kidneys, intestines, liver, etc). In women it also contains the ovaries and uterus.
abscess
A swelling, caused by a build up of pus, that is located within the body tissue.
acetabulum
The cup-shaped cavity at the base of the hip bone into which the ball-shaped head of the femur fits.
acne
A disorder of the skin in which the glands producing oily matter become inflamed. It is characterized by blackheads, pustules and even scars. There are a number of treatments available. Acne particularly affects teenagers.
actinotherapy
the treatment of disorders with infrared or ultraviolet radiation
acupuncture
A central therapy in Traditional Chinese Medicine, where fine needles are inserted into the skin at specific points. These points are believed by to lie on channels, or meridians, of energy flow, or qi (chi).
adenovirus
A virus that contains DNA. It causes respiratory infections that have similar symptoms to the common cold.
ADHD
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a behavioural disorder which begins in childhood. Symptoms include short attention span and impulsive tendencies, commonly but not always combined with hyperactivity.
admission ticket
A voucher that entitles entry to an event or establishment, often prepaid.
adrenaline
A hormone secreted from the adrenal gland in preparation for ‘fright, flight or fight’. The effects include increased heart and breathing rate, improved muscle contraction and delayed muscular fatigue.
advertisement
A public notice or announcement especially one advertising goods or services in newspapers, on posters, or in broadcasts
AIDS
Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is a disease caused by infections resulting from a weakened immune system due to the HIV virus. It leads to failure of the immune system and is usually fatal. It is spread through direct contact with bodily fluids.
air sampler
A device for obtaining and measuring air samples to assess the quality of air and the presence of any contaminants.
albarello
A form of jar, typically from Medieval Spain, used for storing drugs. The word ‘albarello’ is of Spanish origin but historians appear divided over whether or not the design of the jar originated in Spain, Morocco or China.
alchemy
A form of medieval chemistry that incorporated aspects of philosophy. It was concerned with transforming metal, particularly into gold, and potentially creating an elixir to prolong life.
alligator
Broad-snouted crocodile-like reptile found in the USA and China.
alms bowl
The giving of alms, or charitable donations, is a ritual in many religions. An alms bowl was a vessel into which these charitable donations would be placed.
alms box
Box used to collect alms, or charitable donations. Historically also known as a 'poor box' or 'mite box', it was often placed in church to collect money for the needy.
ambergris
A wax like substance that is an intestinal secretion of the sperm whale. It is found floating on tropical seas and has been used to make perfume.
ambulance
A vehicle used for taking people to and from hospital for treatment, particularly in emergencies.