How Do You Spell HYGIENE?

Pronunciation: [hˈa͡ɪd͡ʒiːn] (IPA)

The word "hygiene" (hahy-jeen) is spelled with a "y" instead of an "i" because it is derived from the Greek word "hygieinē" (hü-jē-ī-ˈnē). The "y" represents the Greek letter "upsilon" which is pronounced like the vowel sound in "sue". The Greek word means "the art of health" and was used to describe practices that prevent disease and promote good health. The spelling of "hygiene" has remained relatively unchanged since it was adopted into English in the mid-19th century.

HYGIENE Meaning and Definition

  1. Hygiene refers to a set of practices and conditions that are aimed at maintaining cleanliness and promoting good health. It involves the actions and routines that individuals and communities undertake to prevent the spread of diseases and maintain personal well-being.

    Hygiene encompasses various aspects, including personal hygiene, environmental hygiene, and public hygiene. Personal hygiene focuses on an individual's cleanliness and includes activities such as regular bathing or showering, dental care, handwashing, and grooming practices like cutting nails and hair. Environmental hygiene pertains to the cleanliness of the surroundings, such as proper waste management, clean water supply, and maintaining clean and healthy living environments. Public hygiene is concerned with the overall cleanliness and health standards of public spaces, including schools, workplaces, hospitals, and recreational areas.

    Practicing good hygiene has numerous benefits. It helps prevent the transmission of pathogens, such as bacteria and viruses, that can cause diseases. Furthermore, it contributes to personal well-being, boosts self-esteem, and enhances social interactions. Simple hygiene measures, such as regular handwashing, can significantly reduce the risk of infections. Hygiene is particularly crucial during outbreaks or pandemics, as it plays a vital role in preventing and controlling the spread of contagious diseases.

    In summary, hygiene refers to the practices and conditions that promote cleanliness and good health. It involves personal, environmental, and public aspects and is essential for disease prevention, personal well-being, and overall community health.

  2. The science of health.

    A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

  3. Health, its preservation and restoration.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for HYGIENE *

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for HYGIENE

Etymology of HYGIENE

The word "hygiene" has its origins in the Greek language. It comes from the Greek word "hygieia", which means "the goddess of health". In Greek mythology, Hygieia was the daughter of the Greek god Asclepius, who was associated with healing and medicine. The term "hygiene" was first used in English in the mid-17th century to refer to the science of health and the principles of cleanliness and sanitation.

Similar spelling words for HYGIENE

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