1. relating to or concerned with the causes or origins of something, especially a disease or condition
Usage: commonly used in medical and scientific contexts
2. relating to etiology, the study of causes or origins
Usage: formal; used in academic and professional discourse

Examples

• The etiological factors of the disease remain unclear despite extensive research.
• Doctors conducted an etiological investigation to determine the source of the infection.
• An etiological approach to understanding mental illness examines underlying causes rather than just symptoms.
• The etiological link between smoking and lung cancer is well established.
• Researchers used etiological methods to trace the outbreak back to its origin.
• Understanding the etiological basis of the disorder helps develop more effective treatments.