endometriosis

American  

[en-doh-mee-tree-oh-sis] / ˌɛn doʊˌmi triˈoʊ sɪs /

noun

Pathology.

1. the presence of tissue similar to the uterine lining outside of the uterus, especially in other pelvic organs such as the ovaries: characterized by cyst formation, adhesions, and pain.

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endometriosis British  

/ ˌɛndəʊˌmiːtrɪˈəʊsɪs /

noun

1. pathol the presence of endometrium in areas other than the lining of the uterus, as on the ovaries, resulting in premenstrual pain

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endometriosis Scientific  

/ ĕn′dō-mē′trē-ō′sĭs /

1. A gynecologic disorder characterized by the abnormal presence of functional endometrial tissue outside the uterus, often resulting in pelvic pain and dysmenorrhea.

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Etymology

Origin of endometriosis

First recorded in 1920–25; from New Latin; endometri(um) ( def. ) + -osis ( def. )

Example Sentences

Doctors say the technology enables them to show precisely which areas of endometriosis may be removed during surgery.

From BBC • Apr. 4, 2026

The average waiting time for an endometriosis diagnosis has now reached nine years and four months, according to a new report by the charity Endometriosis UK.

From BBC • Apr. 4, 2026

Bainton said the aim of surgery is always to remove the affected tissue while preserving healthy organs, but that this can be challenging because endometriosis can cause fibrosis and may infiltrate nearby structures.

From BBC • Apr. 4, 2026

Although symptoms vary from person to person, endometriosis can be severe and debilitating.

From BBC • Mar. 26, 2026

He’d pioneered the use of estrogen for treating symptoms of menopause and made important early discoveries about endometriosis.

From "The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks" by Rebecca Skloot