inflammation

noun

in·​flam·​ma·​tion ˌin-flə-ˈmā-shən 

1

: a local response to cellular injury that is marked by capillary dilatation, leukocytic infiltration, redness, heat, and pain and that serves as a mechanism initiating the elimination of noxious agents and of damaged tissue

2

: the act of inflaming : the state of being inflamed

Examples of inflammation in a Sentence

The drug is used to reduce inflammation.

inflammations of the throat and ears

Recent Examples on the Web

The Heat was without Butler (team suspension), Josh Richardson (right heel inflammation), Dru Smith (left Achilles surgery) and Isaiah Stevens (G League) against the Warriors. —Anthony Chiang, Miami Herald, 8 Jan. 2025

Eye inflammation Up to one third of people with axial spondyloarthritis will develop uveitis, or eye inflammation. —Brittany Risher, SELF, 8 Jan. 2025

Serious complications could include worsening asthma, severe pneumonia or, in rare cases, brain inflammation. —Evan Moore, Charlotte Observer, 7 Jan. 2025

However, the trend doesn’t seem to be going anywhere, as creators are quick to tout the benefits of cortisol-reducing supplements — less inflammation, more sculpted jaw line, better sleep, healthier skin and, of course, less stress. —Emily Burns, WWD, 7 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing inflammation

• anti-inflammation

Kids Definition

inflammation

noun

in·​flam·​ma·​tion ˌin-flə-ˈmā-shən 

1

: the act of inflaming : the state of being inflamed

2

: a bodily response to injury in which heat, redness, pain, swelling, and more than the usual amount of blood are present in the area affected

Medical Definition

inflammation

noun

in·​flam·​ma·​tion ˌin-flə-ˈmā-shən 

: a local response to cellular injury that is marked by capillary dilatation, leukocytic infiltration, redness, heat, pain, swelling, and often loss of function and that serves as a mechanism initiating the elimination of noxious agents and of damaged tissue