distension
UK: dɪˈstɛnʃən | US: dɪˈstɛnʃən
n. the act of expanding or the state of being expanded, especially due to internal pressure
n. (medical) abnormal swelling or enlargement of a body part or organ
distension = dis<apart> + tens<stretch> + ion<noun suffix>
- dis-: Latin prefix meaning "apart" or "away," indicating separation or expansion.
- tens-: From Latin tendere ("to stretch"), reflecting the concept of stretching or expansion.
- -ion: Noun-forming suffix indicating an action or state.
Etymology Origin:
The word "distension" originates from Latin distensio, derived from distendere ("to stretch apart"). It combines dis- (apart) and tendere (to stretch), vividly capturing the idea of something being stretched or swollen due to internal pressure. Over time, it evolved into Middle French distension before entering English, retaining its core meaning of expansion or swelling.
The distension of the balloon was caused by the increasing air pressure inside.
Abdominal distension can be a symptom of digestive disorders.
The doctor noted significant distension in the patient’s veins.
Overeating often leads to uncomfortable stomach distension.
The distension of the rubber band made it prone to snapping.