hypothyroidism

noun

hy·​po·​thy·​roid·​ism ˌhī-pō-ˈthī-ˌrȯi-ˌdi-zəm How to pronounce hypothyroidism (audio)
: deficient activity of the thyroid gland
also : a resultant bodily condition characterized by lowered metabolic rate and general loss of vigor

Examples of hypothyroidism in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Dry skin is the most common skin change, affecting more than half of those with hypothyroidism. — Brandi Jones, Health, 28 Apr. 2026 The possibilities outlined to her were a goiter, hypothyroidism or cancer. — Angela Andaloro, PEOPLE, 3 Apr. 2026 This temporary thyroid inflammation can cause under active thyroid levels (hypothyroidism), which lists intensely dry skin as a primary symptom. — Lauren Brown West-Rosenthal, Parents, 28 May 2026 Clinicians will also evaluate a patient for medical conditions that might make weight loss more challenging, such as perimenopause or hypothyroidism, which is underactive thyroid. — Amy J. Sheer, The Conversation, 5 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for hypothyroidism

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary

First Known Use

1905, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of hypothyroidism was in 1905

Rhymes for hypothyroidism

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Browse Nearby Words

hypothyroid
hypothyroidism
hypotonia
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Hypothyroidism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hypothyroidism. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

hypothyroidism

noun
hy·​po·​thy·​roid·​ism ˌhī-pō-ˈthī-ˌrȯid-ˌiz-əm How to pronounce hypothyroidism (audio)
: too little activity of the thyroid gland
also : the abnormal bodily condition that results from this
hypothyroid
-ˌrȯid
adjective

Medical Definition

hypothyroidism

noun
hy·​po·​thy·​roid·​ism -ˌiz-əm How to pronounce hypothyroidism (audio)
: deficient activity of the thyroid gland
also : a resultant bodily condition characterized by lowered metabolic rate and general loss of vigor

More from Merriam-Webster on hypothyroidism

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about hypothyroidism

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