peristalsis

[ per-uh-stawl-sis, -stal- ]

noun

, Physiology.

, plural per·i·stal·ses [per-, uh, -, stawl, -seez, -, stal, -].

1. 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.

peristalsis

/ ˌpɛrɪˈstælsɪs /

noun

1. 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

peristalsis

/ pĕr′ĭ-stôl′sĭs /

1. 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.

peristalsis

1. The wavelike, involuntary muscular contractions that move food through the digestive system .

Derived Forms

• ˌperiˈstaltically, adverb
• ˌperiˈstaltic, adjective

Other Words From

• hyper·peri·stalsis noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of peristalsis¹

1855–60; < New Latin < Greek peri- peri- + stálsis contraction, equivalent to stal- (variant stem of stéllein to set, bring together, compress) + -sis -sis

Word History and Origins

Origin of peristalsis¹

C19: from New Latin, from peri- + Greek stalsis compression, from stellein to press together

Example Sentences

I believe you can imagine the result, elimination is prevented because of the stoppage of peristalsis.

From Project Gutenberg

It increases intestinal peristalsis, acts as a mild laxative, and slightly stimulates secretion of bile.

From Project Gutenberg

For is it not indicative of peristalsis that always when the upper parts of the gullet contract the lower parts dilate?

From Project Gutenberg

In its modern significance, peristalsis, however, also includes the movements of longitudinal fibres.

From Project Gutenberg

I have as much attitude toward it as I do toward osmosis or toward peristalsis.

From Project Gutenberg