Path. [f. L. tonsill-a TONSIL + -ITIS.] Inflammation of the tonsils; when suppuration takes place, called quinsy.
1801. E. Darwin, Zoon., III. 361. By tonsillitis, the inflammation of the tonsils is principally to be understood.
1878. T. Bryant, Pract. Surg., I. 534. Tonsillitis as an acute affection is known as quinsy, and is characterized by the rapid swelling of the part, acute pain, foul tongue, and fever.
