thalassemia major

noun

: cooley's anemia

Examples of thalassemia major in a Sentence

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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.
Alpha thalassemia major involves two genes, and two flawed copies of each. — New York Times, 25 May 2018 Blood transfusions are one of the most critical treatments for patient living with sickle cell disease — most of whom are of African and Latin heritage — and beta thalassemia major, which disproportionately affects those of Asian descent. — Laura Groch, San Diego Union-Tribune, 13 Apr. 2022

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, greater thalassemia

First Known Use

1944, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of thalassemia major was in 1944

Rhymes for thalassemia major

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Browse Nearby Words

thalassemia
thalassemia major
thalassemia minor
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Cite this Entry

“Thalassemia major.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/thalassemia%20major. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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Medical Definition

thalassemia major

noun
: cooley's anemia

More from Merriam-Webster on thalassemia major

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about thalassemia major

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