peristalsis
2
8.6
- noun
- /ˌpɛrɪˈstɔːlsɪs/
- Specialized
- A balanced diet promotes healthy peristalsis in the digestive system.
- reverse peristalsis
Examples
-
She has an obstruction that is not allowing the normal peristalsis of the smooth muscle to continue.
-
This is further complicated because blood is an irritant for the bowel and increases peristalsis; thus, larger bleeds may disperse more rapidly.
Academic text (2007) -
Also, do not drink cold water since it has been found to slow peristalsis.
Blog text (12) -
This support must be maintained until peristalsis returns.
Academic text (2005) -
My dad was on Xanax for over 20 years, until it started affecting his peristalsis in his intestines.
Blog text (17) -
The esophagus has certain protective mechanisms that prevent mucosal injury (bicarbonate production, mucosal barrier, and peristalsis), whereas the pharynx and larynx do not.
Academic text (2002) -
This drink can hinder peristalsis, causing digestive issues.
-
An obstruction can prevent normal peristalsis in the intestines.
Synonyms
1
9.9
The wave movement of muscles that pushes food through the intestines
Antonyms
- Specialized
Backward movement of food in the intestine when muscles push it the wrong way
Surface Forms
Morphology
peristalsis = peri + stalsis
Although analyzable as Greek peri- 'around' + a root meaning 'contraction', the internal elements are not productive or recognizable as standalone English words and the term is specialised medical vocabulary, so learners cannot reliably derive the meaning from its parts.
Etymology
Peristalsis comes from Greek parts peri- meaning 'around', as you see in perimeter, and -stalsis meaning 'a squeezing movement'. So peristalsis is like a moving ring of squeezes that travels down the food tube to push food along.