peristalsis
the progressive wave of contraction and relaxation of a tubular muscular system, especially the alimentary canal, by which the contents are forced through the system.
Origin of peristalsis
1Other words from peristalsis
- hy·per·per·i·stal·sis, noun
Words Nearby peristalsis
Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2024
How to use peristalsis in a sentence
I believe you can imagine the result, elimination is prevented because of the stoppage of peristalsis.
Highways in Hiding | George Oliver SmithIt increases intestinal peristalsis, acts as a mild laxative, and slightly stimulates secretion of bile.
All About Coffee | William H. UkersFor is it not indicative of peristalsis that always when the upper parts of the gullet contract the lower parts dilate?
On the Natural Faculties | GalenIn its modern significance, peristalsis, however, also includes the movements of longitudinal fibres.
On the Natural Faculties | GalenI have as much attitude toward it as I do toward osmosis or toward peristalsis.
Card Trick | Walter Bupp AKA Randall Garrett
British Dictionary definitions for peristalsis
/ (ˌpɛrɪˈstælsɪs) /
physiol the succession of waves of involuntary muscular contraction of various bodily tubes, esp of the alimentary tract, where it effects transport of food and waste products
Origin of peristalsis
1Derived forms of peristalsis
- peristaltic, adjective
- peristaltically, adverb
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012
Scientific definitions for peristalsis
[ pĕr′ĭ-stôl′sĭs ]
The wavelike muscular contractions in tubular structures, especially organs of the digestive system such as the esophagus and the intestines. Peristalsis is characterized by alternate contraction and relaxation, which pushes ingested food through the digestive tract towards its release at the anus. Worms propel themselves through peristaltic movement.
The American Heritage® Science Dictionary Copyright © 2011. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.
Cultural definitions for peristalsis
[ (per-uh-stawl-sis, per-uh-stal-sis) ]
The wavelike, involuntary muscular contractions that move food through the digestive system.
The New Dictionary of Cultural Literacy, Third Edition Copyright © 2005 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.
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