menstruation

noun

men·​stru·​a·​tion ˌmen(t)-strü-ˈwā-shən 

men-ˈstrā-

: a cyclical discharging of blood, secretions, and tissue debris from the uterus that recurs in nonpregnant breeding-age primate females at approximately monthly intervals and that is considered to represent a readjustment of the uterus to the nonpregnant state following proliferative changes accompanying the preceding ovulation

also : period sense 6c

Synonyms

• monthlies
• period

Examples of menstruation in a Sentence

a first menstruation can be somewhat scary for girls who are unprepared

Recent Examples on the Web

Concerns ranged from retrograde menstruation in microgravity causing or aggravating endometriosis, the potential for menstrual products to clog toilet filters, and the inappropriateness of space equipment designed exclusively for men. —Lisa Falco, Forbes, 27 Jan. 2025

Clotting: Clotting is typical during menstruation but will not develop in implantation bleeding. —Angelica Bottaro, Verywell Health, 23 Jan. 2025

Local spaces aiming to support beauty and wellness needs are opening their doors to collect beauty, hygiene, and menstruation product donations from all who wish to lend a hand. —Essence, 17 Jan. 2025

When does menstruation start? U.S. children who menstruate are most likely to get their first period around the age of 12, according to research published in JAMA Pediatrics. —Kayla Jimenez, USA TODAY, 16 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1686, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

menstruation

noun

men·​stru·​a·​tion ˌmen(t)-strə-ˈwā-shən 

men-ˈstrā-shən

: a discharging of blood, secretions, and tissue debris from the uterus at periods of approximately one month in female primates of breeding age that are not pregnant

also : period sense 3c

Medical Definition

menstruation

noun

men·​stru·​a·​tion ˌmen(t)-strə-ˈwā-shən, men-ˈstrā- 

: a discharging of blood, secretions, and tissue debris from the uterus that recurs in nonpregnant human and other primate females of breeding age at approximately monthly intervals and that is considered to represent a readjustment of the uterus to the nonpregnant state following proliferative changes accompanying the preceding ovulation

also : period sense 1b