Re: Why is gonorrhea called 'the clap'?

Area: Medicine
Posted By: Frederick Sweet, Ph.D. Ob-Gyn, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis MO
Date: Wed May 14 17:03:41 1997
Area of science: Medicine
ID: 863576647.Me

Message:

gonorrhea  (a.k.a.  the clap)

Is a sexually transmitted disease caused by gonococcal bacteria. The disease
affects the mucous membrane chiefly of the genital and urinary tracts and is
characterized by an acute purulent discharge and painful or difficult 
urination, though women often have no symptoms.

According to  Webster's Ninth New Collegiate Dictionary:  
"clap" (most often used as, "the clap") is derived from the French word 
"clapoir;"  adopted  ca. 1587 for describing gonorrhea.

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