1. the cause or origin of a disease or condition
Usage: medical/scientific term
2. the study of the causes or origins of diseases
Usage: medical/scientific term
3. the cause or origin of something in general
Usage: broader usage

Examples

• The etiology of the patient's illness was traced to a bacterial infection.
• Doctors investigated the etiology of the outbreak to prevent future cases.
• Understanding the etiology of heart disease helps researchers develop better treatments.
• The etiology of depression involves both genetic and environmental factors.
• Scientists study the etiology of cancer to find new ways to prevent it.
• The etiology of the problem was poor communication between departments.