hiatal hernia

noun

: protrusion of part of the stomach upward into the chest cavity through the passage in the diaphragm for the esophagus usually with movement of the opening of the esophagus into the stomach to a position above the diaphragm

called also hiatus hernia

Examples of hiatal hernia in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Surgery is typically recommended when other treatments don't work or if the underlying cause of symptoms requires repair, as in a hiatal hernia. Mark Gurarie, Health, 2 Nov. 2024 Some common causes include gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), esophagitis, hiatal hernia, esophageal strictures, primary esophageal motility disorders (PEMDs), and esophageal perforations. Anna Giorgi, Verywell Health, 29 July 2024

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1944, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of hiatal hernia was circa 1944

Dictionary Entries Near hiatal hernia

Cite this Entry

“Hiatal hernia.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hiatal%20hernia. Accessed 20 Dec. 2024.

Medical Definition

hiatal hernia

noun
variants also hiatus hernia
: herniation of an abdominal organ
specifically : protrusion of part of the stomach upward into the chest cavity through the passage in the diaphragm for the esophagus that is typically accompanied with movement of the opening of the esophagus into the stomach to a position above the diaphragm and that may be asymptomatic or be accompanied by symptoms typical of gastroesophageal reflux (such as heartburn, belching, or bloating).
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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