'Rachitis' definitions:

Definition of 'rachitis'

noun

Inflammation of the vertebral column

noun

Childhood disease caused by deficiency of vitamin D and sunlight associated with impaired metabolism of calcium and phosphorus [syn: rickets, rachitis]

Definition of 'Rachitis'

From: GCIDE

Rachitis \Ra*chi"tis\ (r[.a]*k[imac]"t[i^]s), n. [NL., fr. Gr. "rachi^tis (sc. nosos), fr. "ra`chis, -ios, the spine.] [Written also rhachitis.]
1. (Med.) Literally, inflammation of the spine, but commonly applied to the rickets. See Rickets. [1913 Webster]
2. (Bot.) A disease which produces abortion in the fruit or seeds. --Henslow. [1913 Webster]

Definition of 'rachitis'

From: GCIDE

Rickets \Rick"ets\, n. pl. [Of uncertain origin; but cf. AS. wrigian to bend, D. wrikken to shake, E. wriggle.] (Med.) A disease which affects children, and which is characterized by a bulky head, crooked spine and limbs, depressed ribs, enlarged and spongy articular epiphyses, tumid abdomen, and short stature, together with clear and often premature mental faculties. The essential cause of the disease appears to be the nondeposition of earthy salts in the osteoid tissues. Children afflicted with this malady stand and walk unsteadily. Called also rachitis. [1913 Webster]