asiatic cholera

noun

Meaning

A severe, infectious form of cholera caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae, historically characterized by its tendency to spread rapidly across continents in pandemic waves.

Examples

  • During the 19th century, asiatic cholera devastated populations across Europe and North America.
  • Public health infrastructure in major cities was significantly overhauled following the repeated arrival of asiatic cholera.

Synonyms: cholera, epidemic cholera, Asiatic plague, Vibrio cholerae infection