edema

noun

ede·​ma i-ˈdē-mə 

1

: an abnormal infiltration and excess accumulation of serous fluid in connective tissue or in a serous cavity

called also dropsy

2

a

: watery swelling of plant organs or parts

b

: any of various plant diseases characterized by such swellings

Examples of edema in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Symptoms for kidney conditions vary but can include edema, fatigue, muscle cramps, headaches and nausea. —Meredith Lepore, Travel + Leisure, 26 Nov. 2024

This gadget is a reliable option for anyone who struggles with edema or sore muscles. —Claire Rutter, Rolling Stone, 21 Nov. 2024

The timing was not ideal as the 34-year-old right-handed pitcher made his first major league start this past season on June 19th after suffering from nerve inflammation and edema in his right elbow. —Wayne G. McDonnell, Jr., Forbes, 6 Nov. 2024

This can lead to water retention in the arms and legs (peripheral edema) and in the abdomen. —Laura Schober, Health, 2 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Greek oidēma swelling, from oidein to swell; akin to Armenian aytnu- swell, Old English ātor poison

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

edema

noun

ede·​ma i-ˈdē-mə 

: an abnormal collection of watery fluid in a bodily tissue or cavity

Medical Definition

edema

noun

ede·​ma

variants or chiefly British oedema

i-ˈdē-mə 

plural edemas or chiefly British oedemas also edemata

-mət-ə

or chiefly British oedemata

: an abnormal excess accumulation of serous fluid in connective tissue or in a serous cavity

called also dropsy