jaundice
/ˈdʒɔːndɪs/
In a medical context, it describes the distinct yellowing of the skin and eyes caused by excess bilirubin. It is a clinical symptom rather than a disease itself, usually signaling liver, gallbladder, or blood dysfunction.
Metaphorically, it refers to a distorted, cynical, or prejudiced perspective. When someone views something with "jaundice," they are not seeing it objectively; their judgment is clouded by past negative experiences or deep-seated resentment.
Unlike 'bias,' which can be neutral or subconscious, jaundice implies a bitter or sickly quality to the prejudice—as if the person's outlook has been poisoned or corrupted.
Uncountable when referring to the medical condition of yellowing skin. Countable when referring to a specific instance or case of the condition in a clinical setting.
💬Casual Conversation
Your eyes are looking a bit yellow, dude. Jaundice?
Your eyes are looking a bit yellow, dude. Jaundice?
It's just the cafe lighting, Maya. Not everything is a medical emergency.
It's just the cafe lighting, Maya. Not everything is a medical emergency.
Meanings
A yellowing of the skin and eyes caused by an excess of bilirubin in the blood.
The patient showed signs of jaundice after the liver scan.
A feeling of bitterness or resentment that colors one's judgment.
He viewed the new policy through the lens of jaundice.
To fill with bitterness or resentment.
Years of corporate politics had jaundiced his view of management.