Definition

1. Noun:
   • The act of expanding by pressure from within: "Distention" refers to the process of being stretched or enlarged, typically due to internal pressure.
   • The state of being stretched beyond normal dimensions: "Distention" also describes the condition or result of being abnormally swollen, inflated, or expanded.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The distention of the balloon was caused by the trapped hot air. (The balloon's expansion was a result of the hot air inside it.)
  • Abdominal distention is a common symptom after a large meal. (The state of the abdomen being swollen is a frequent occurrence following a big meal.)

Advanced Usage

• Medical Context: Often used to describe abnormal swelling in a body part or organ.
  • The doctor noted significant gastric distention on the X-ray. (The physician observed a considerable abnormal enlargement of the stomach in the image.)
• Physical Sciences: Can describe the expansion of a material or container.
  • The distention of the metal cylinder indicated a dangerous pressure buildup. (The cylinder's expansion signaled a hazardous increase in internal pressure.)

Variants and Related Words

• Distend (verb): To swell or cause to swell by pressure from inside.
  • Overeating can distend the stomach.
• Distensible (adjective): Capable of being stretched or expanded.
  • The bladder is a highly distensible organ.

Synonyms

• Expansion: The action of becoming larger or more extensive.
• Swelling: An abnormal enlargement of a part of the body.
• Inflation: The action of inflating or the condition of being inflated.

Antonyms

• Contraction: The process of becoming smaller.
• Deflation: The action or process of deflating or being deflated.
• Compression: The action of pressing something into a smaller space.

Related Phrases

• Abdominal distention: A specific medical term for a swollen abdomen.
  • The patient complained of pain and abdominal distention.
• Gastric distention: Swelling of the stomach.
  • Rapid eating can lead to uncomfortable gastric distention.

Noun

1. the act of expanding by pressure from within
2. the state of being stretched beyond normal dimensions