laminitis

noun

lam·​i·​ni·​tis ˌla-mə-ˈnī-təs 

: inflammation of and damage to the laminae (see lamina sense 4) and coffin bone in the hoof of a domesticated animal (such as a horse or cow) that is typically caused by poor diet, obesity, or diseases associated with inflammation : founder entry 3

Complications linked to obesity in horses can be debilitating, such as the condition laminitis. This leads to inflammation and swelling in the hooves, causing extreme pain, and can be fatal.

—Phoebe Southworth

Examples of laminitis in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

He was euthanized after developing laminitis following surgery in August. —John Cherwa, Los Angeles Times, 5 Oct. 2023

The Times excludes deaths due to colic, laminitis, neurological or other issues unless directly tied to racing or training. —John Cherwa, Los Angeles Times, 26 Aug. 2023

His laminitis, an inflammatory condition targeting hooves, was exacerbated by the Valley’s record-setting heat. —Jose R. Gonzalez, The Arizona Republic, 30 July 2023

Lowering blood insulin concentrations can also prevent horses from developing laminitis, a disease that inflames tissues in hooves that can necessitate euthanasia because of incurable pain. —Jane Manfredi, Fortune Well, 25 July 2023

Word History

Etymology

New Latin

First Known Use

1837, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

laminitis

noun

lam·​i·​ni·​tis ˌlam-ə-ˈnīt-əs 

: inflammation of and damage to the laminae (see lamina sense b) and coffin bone in the hoof of a domesticated animal (such as a horse or cow) that is typically caused by poor diet, obesity, or diseases associated with inflammation : founder entry 2