\Ca*tarrh"\, n. [L. catarrhus, Gr. ?, ?, a running down,
rheum, fr. ?; kata` down + ? to flow. See {Stream}.] (Med.)
An inflammatory affection of any mucous membrane, in which
there are congestion, swelling, and an altertion in the
quantity and quality of mucus secreted; as, catarrh of the
stomach; catarrh of the bladder.
Note: In America, the term catarrh is applied especially to a
      chronic inflammation of, and hypersecretion fron, the
      membranes of the nose or air passages; in England, to
      an acute influenza, resulting a cold, and attended with
      cough, thirst, lassitude, and watery eyes; also, to the
      cold itself.