distension

noun

dis·​ten·​sion di-ˈsten(t)-shən How to pronounce distension (audio)
variants or distention
: the act of distending or the state of being distended especially unduly or abnormally

Examples of distension in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Affected Organs Adult colic involves intestinal or urinary system pain in different types of colic: Gallbladder Biliary colic occurs as a result of distension (an increase in size) of your gallbladder. Anna Giorgi, Verywell Health, 12 July 2024 Why Colic Results in Pain Colic results in pain that occurs due to distension, obstruction, or inflammation. Anna Giorgi, Verywell Health, 12 July 2024 Difficulty in breathing, weakness of other muscles, abdominal distension and constipation may also be common symptoms. Meghan Overdeep, Southern Living, 24 June 2024 In the stomach, this stretching is called distension. Sarah Kuta, Smithsonian Magazine, 3 Jan. 2024 People with this type of obesity should try to eat one to two full meals a day in order to keep the stomach full so the distension signals the brain to stop eating. Alice Park, Time, 30 June 2023 Patients describe that body posture may affect their abdominal bloating, distension, and flatulence, but whether changes in position have objectively demonstrable effects, either beneficial or deleterious, has not been investigated. Seriously Science, Discover Magazine, 3 July 2015 Large-volume condom distension significantly increased the electric waves' variables and pressure. Ncbi Rofl, Discover Magazine, 4 Dec. 2010 The beneficial effects of melatonin were most apparent in terms of abdominal discomfort, stomach distension, and abnormal defecation sensation. Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 15 Dec. 2022

Word History

Etymology

Middle English distensioun, from Latin distention-, distentio, from distendere

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of distension was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near distension

Cite this Entry

“Distension.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/distension. Accessed 13 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

distension

noun
dis·​ten·​sion
variants or distention
: the act of distending or the state of being distended

Medical Definition

distension

noun
dis·​ten·​sion
variants or distention
: the act of distending or the state of being distended especially unduly or abnormally
no noticeable distension of the abdomenBenjamin Spock

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