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Synonyms

diarrhoea

British  
/ ˌdaɪəˈrɪə /

noun

  1. frequent and copious discharge of abnormally liquid faeces

"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

Other Word Forms

  • diarrhoeal adjective

Etymology

Origin of diarrhoea

C16: from Late Latin, from Greek diarrhoia, from diarrhein to flow through, from dia- + rhein to flow

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Michael's father, Gareth, said his young son spent four days in hospital with a fever and severe diarrhoea.

From BBC • Mar. 24, 2026

Anyone experiencing diarrhoea or vomiting within two weeks of visiting a farm should contact their GP or call NHS 111, PHW said.

From BBC • Mar. 24, 2026

The most noticeable symptom of colorectal cancer is changes in bowel movements -- such as diarrhoea or constipation.

From Barron's • Feb. 17, 2026

Steel says signs that something may be wrong with your gut can include persistent constipation, diarrhoea, excessive gas or ongoing abdominal pain.

From BBC • Feb. 5, 2026

It is humiliating before others to have a diarrhoea from ptomaine poisoning or to vomit from it.

From "The Old Man and The Sea" by Ernest Hemingway