from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Catarrh \Ca*tarrh"\, n. [L. catarrhus, Gr. ?, ?, a running down,
rheum, fr. ?; kata` down + ? to flow. See {Stream}.] (Med.)
An inflammatory affection of any mucous membrane, in which
there are congestion, swelling, and an altertion in the
quantity and quality of mucus secreted; as, catarrh of the
stomach; catarrh of the bladder.
[1913 Webster]
Note: In America, the term catarrh is applied especially to a
chronic inflammation of, and hypersecretion fron, the
membranes of the nose or air passages; in England, to
an acute influenza, resulting a cold, and attended with
cough, thirst, lassitude, and watery eyes; also, to the
cold itself.
[1913 Webster]