Definitions for: Rickets

[n] childhood disease caused by deficiency of vitamin D and sunlight associated with impaired metabolism of calcium and phosphorus

Webster (1913) Definition: Rick"ets, n. pl. [Of uncertain origin; but cf. AS.
wrigian to bend, D. wrikken to shake, E. wriggle.] (Med.)
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.

Synonyms: rachitis

See Also: avitaminosis, hypovitaminosis

Try our:
Scrabble Word Finder

Scrabble Cheat

Words With Friends Cheat

Hanging With Friends Cheat

Scramble With Friends Cheat

Ruzzle Cheat

Related Resources:
animals starting with b
d letter animals
animals starting with l