irritable bowel syndrome

noun

: a chronic functional disorder of the colon that is characterized especially by constipation or diarrhea, cramping abdominal pain, and the passage of mucus in the stool

—abbreviation IBS

Examples of irritable bowel syndrome in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

People with sensitive stomachs or digestive conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome, for instance, may find that overconsumption of blueberries will give them stomach pain, constipation or cramping. —Daryl Austin, USA TODAY, 21 Nov. 2024

Constant difficulty or discomfort when passing stool can be a symptom of gastrointestinal issues, such as irritable bowel syndrome and Crohn’s disease. —Cnn.com Wire Service, The Mercury News, 12 Nov. 2024

Chronic Gastrointestinal Conditions Diarrhea is a common symptom of chronic GI disorders, like irritable bowel syndrome or celiac disease. —Kelly Burch, Verywell Health, 16 Oct. 2024

By Jamie Friedlander Serrano October 21, 2024 10:58 AM EDT Somewhere between 60 and 70 million Americans have digestive conditions like inflammatory bowel disease, acid reflux, chronic constipation, irritable bowel syndrome, and hemorrhoids. —Jamie Friedlander Serrano, TIME, 21 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1943, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

irritable bowel syndrome

noun

: a chronic functional disorder of the colon that is of unknown etiology but is often associated with abnormal intestinal motility and increased sensitivity to visceral pain and that is characterized by diarrhea or constipation or diarrhea alternating with constipation, abdominal pain or discomfort, abdominal bloating, and passage of mucus in the stool

—abbreviation IBS

called also irritable colon, irritable colon syndrome, mucous colitis, spastic colon