Syphilitic/ˌsɪfɪˈlɪtɪk/ Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Medical Specificity Only used in medical contexts when discussing syphilis-related conditions. The patient received treatment for syphilitic neurosis. Pro Tip 2/3Stigma Sensitivity Be aware of the stigma when discussing syphilis as it may cause offense or discomfort. When writing about syphilitic symptoms, use sensitive language. Pro Tip 3/3Not Metaphorical Avoid using 'syphilitic' as a metaphor in professional or formal situations. His presentation on syphilitic research was strictly clinical.