peristalsis

/,peri'stælsis/

Thân thiện

The diagram shows how peristalsis moves food through the esophagus.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • The process of wavelike muscle contractions of the alimentary tract that moves food along: A series of involuntary, coordinated muscular contractions and relaxations that propel contents through tubular structures in the body, especially the digestive system.

Usage

• Noun: The term "peristalsis" is used exclusively as a noun in biological and medical contexts to describe the automatic, wave-like motion of smooth muscles in hollow organs. It is a non-count noun, typically used without a plural form.

Examples

• Noun:
  • Digestion relies on peristalsis to move food from the esophagus to the stomach.
  • A blockage can occur if peristalsis is too weak.
  • The doctor explained that the pain was related to irregular peristalsis in the intestines.

Advanced Usage

• "Reverse peristalsis" or "retroperistalsis": A backward wave of contractions, which can lead to vomiting.
  • Food poisoning can sometimes trigger reverse peristalsis.

Variants and Related Words

• Peristaltic (adj): Relating to or characterized by peristalsis.
  • The peristaltic movement is essential for swallowing.

Synonyms

• Vermiculation (a less common, more technical synonym).
• Rhythmic contraction.

Antonyms

• Atony: Lack of normal muscle tone or strength.
• Paralysis: Loss of the ability to move muscles.

Học thuật

Noun

1. the process of wavelike muscle contractions of the alimentary tract that moves food along

Từ đồng nghĩa

• vermiculation