tumescence

noun

tu·​mes·​cence tü-ˈme-sᵊn(t)s How to pronounce tumescence (audio)
tyü-
: the quality or state of being tumescent
especially : readiness for sexual activity marked especially by vascular congestion of the sex organs

Examples of tumescence in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Dusky figures spread across a fetid den lapse into extreme emotional states — from bewilderment to tumescence to horror and anxious, erotic oblivion. Armond White, National Review, 3 Mar. 2021 Sean Hannity’s tumescence will be visible from Mars. Charles P. Pierce, Esquire, 25 Oct. 2017 Leigha Kato as Marcy Park wows in a number about tiger-daughter rebellion, and the popular jock Chip (Will Carlyon) layers his confidence with tender embarrassment over an unwanted tumescence. Jim Rutter, Philly.com, 25 Sep. 2017 The mere image of Will Ferrell in a state of mortifying public tumescence was enough to send my son into spasms of uncontrollable laughter. Jeff Gordinier, Esquire, 1 June 2017

Word History

First Known Use

1859, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of tumescence was in 1859

Dictionary Entries Near tumescence

Cite this Entry

“Tumescence.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/tumescence. Accessed 8 Nov. 2024.

Medical Definition

tumescence

noun
tu·​mes·​cence t(y)ü-ˈmes-ᵊn(t)s How to pronounce tumescence (audio)
: the quality or state of being tumescent
especially : readiness for sexual activity marked especially by vascular congestion of the sex organs
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