underdiagnose

verb

un·​der·​di·​ag·​nose ˌən-dər-ˈdī-ig-ˌnōs How to pronounce underdiagnose (audio)
-ˌnōz;
-ˌdī-ig-ˈnōs,
-ˈnōz,
-əg-
underdiagnosed; underdiagnosing; underdiagnoses

transitive verb

: to diagnose (a condition or disease) less often than it is actually present

Examples of underdiagnose 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.
Contemporary research suggests that previous stereotypes about some types of neurodivergence—like ADHD and autism being more prevalent in men—are not always accurate, as these conditions may be underdiagnosed in groups, like women, with whom they are not commonly associated. Melanie Green and Aarti Shyamsunder, Quartz, 2 Mar. 2023

Word History

First Known Use

1974, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of underdiagnose was in 1974

Dictionary Entries Near underdiagnose

Cite this Entry

“Underdiagnose.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/underdiagnose. Accessed 1 Dec. 2024.

Medical Definition

underdiagnose

transitive verb
un·​der·​di·​ag·​nose -ˈdī-ig-ˌnōs, -ˌnōz; -ˌdī-ig-ˈ, -əg- How to pronounce underdiagnose (audio)
underdiagnosed; underdiagnosing
: to diagnose (a condition or disease) less often than it is actually present
Army neurologists fear that severe brain injuries are being underdiagnosedRonald F. Glasser, Harper's
… the negative effects of underdiagnosing and undertreating pain …Ellen Jan Kleinerman, The Plain Dealer (Cleveland, Ohio)

More from Merriam-Webster on underdiagnose

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!