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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Bloating and Gas Bloating, also known as abdominal distension, is considered a common side effect of Ibsrela. Femi Aremu, Verywell Health, 8 Apr. 2025 Symptoms of botulism include general weakness, dizziness, double-vision, abdominal distension and constipation, according to the FDA. David Faris, Newsweek, 17 Mar. 2025 Bloating sometimes makes your belly look bigger, which is called distention. Johna Burdeos, Health, 21 Jan. 2025 There, the balloon’s inflated with either liquid or gas to cause the mechanical distension needed for a continuous sensation of satiety. New Atlas, 8 Dec. 2024 Skrillex has never restricted his distension of sonic materials to merely supersizing his bass lines, and among other things, the voices on this album are routinely phased and retuned and cut up. Michaelangelo Matos, Rolling Stone, 1 Apr. 2025 Symptoms of botulism include general weakness, dizziness, double-vision, abdominal distension and constipation, according to the FDA. David Faris, Newsweek, 17 Mar. 2025 Symptoms of botulism include: General weakness Dizziness Double-vision Trouble with speaking or swallowing Other common symptoms of botulism include: Difficulty breathing Weakness of other muscles Abdominal distension Constipation What products were recalled? Fernando Cervantes Jr., USA TODAY, 17 Mar. 2025 This produces gases like hydrogen, carbon dioxide, and methane, which can cause abdominal pain, bloating, distension, and diarrhea.18 Several methods can reduce compounds that cause gastrointestinal discomfort. Merve Ceylan, Health, 11 Feb. 2025

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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Distension.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/distension. Accessed 20 Apr. 2025.

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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