epidemic

/ˌɛpɪˈdɛmɪk/noun
Middle SchoolNot in standard dictionaries
1

A widespread disease that affects many humans in a population.

2

An occurrence of a disease or disorder in a human population at a frequency higher than that expected in a given time period; an episode of outbreak and subsequent high prevalence.

3

A heightened occurrence of anything harmful.

4

The spreading of an idea or belief amongst a population.

Sound Patterns & Rhymes

Rhymes

Words that share the same ending sound pattern

Alliteration

Words starting with the same consonant sound — used in poetry and prose to create rhythm, emphasis, and memorable phrasing (e.g. “Peter Piper picked”)

Assonance

Words sharing similar vowel sounds regardless of starting letter — creates internal melody in writing

Consonance

Words sharing similar consonant sound patterns — adds texture and cohesion to writing

#colloquial