distension

noun

dis·​ten·​sion di-ˈsten(t)-shən How to pronounce distension (audio)
variants or distention
: the act of distending or the state of being distended especially unduly or abnormally

Examples of distension in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web In the stomach, this stretching is called distension. Sarah Kuta, Smithsonian Magazine, 3 Jan. 2024 People with this type of obesity should try to eat one to two full meals a day in order to keep the stomach full so the distension signals the brain to stop eating. Alice Park, Time, 30 June 2023 Patients describe that body posture may affect their abdominal bloating, distension, and flatulence, but whether changes in position have objectively demonstrable effects, either beneficial or deleterious, has not been investigated. Seriously Science, Discover Magazine, 3 July 2015 Large-volume condom distension significantly increased the electric waves' variables and pressure. Ncbi Rofl, Discover Magazine, 4 Dec. 2010 The beneficial effects of melatonin were most apparent in terms of abdominal discomfort, stomach distension, and abnormal defecation sensation. Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 15 Dec. 2022 The electric waves and vaginal pressure were recorded at rest and on vaginal distension by condom in increments of 10 ml of carbon dioxide. Ncbi Rofl, Discover Magazine, 4 Dec. 2010 Severe, self-resolving gastric distension has been reported. James M. Smoliga, Harper's Magazine, 22 June 2021 Anuli had been under treatment since October for episodes of abdominal distension, specifically of her rumen, the first stomach of a ruminant which is where microbial fermentation takes place. Mckenna Oxenden, baltimoresun.com, 5 Mar. 2021

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'distension.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Middle English distensioun, from Latin distention-, distentio, from distendere

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of distension was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near distension

Cite this Entry

“Distension.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/distension. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

distension

noun
dis·​ten·​sion
variants or distention
: the act of distending or the state of being distended

Medical Definition

distension

noun
dis·​ten·​sion
variants or distention
: the act of distending or the state of being distended especially unduly or abnormally
no noticeable distension of the abdomenBenjamin Spock

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