n 1  :  a yellowish pigmentation of the skin, tissues, and certain body fluids caused by the deposition of bile pigments that follows interference with normal production and discharge of bile (as in certain liver diseases) or excessive breakdown of red blood cells (as after internal hemorrhage or in various hemolytic states) - called also icterus   2  :  any disease or abnormal condition (as hepatitis A or leptospirosis) that is characterized by jaundice - called also icterus  .
 
   
 
Published under license with Merriam-Webster, Incorporated.  © 1997-2024.