caisson disease

noun

: decompression sickness

Note: The name caisson disease stems from the occurrence of decompression sickness in individuals working on tunnel and bridge construction in underwater caissons filled with compressed air.

Examples of caisson disease in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Readers will be shocked to learn that Washington Roebling contracted caisson disease soon after construction began, forcing him to work from his bed while his wife worked at the site. Michael Sangiacomo, cleveland.com, 1 May 2018

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'caisson disease.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1873, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of caisson disease was in 1873

Dictionary Entries Near caisson disease

Cite this Entry

“Caisson disease.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/caisson%20disease. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

caisson disease

noun

Medical Definition

caisson disease

noun
cais·​son disease
ˈkā-ˌsän-, ˈkās-ᵊn-; British often kə-ˈsün-

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