gallstone

American  

[gawl-stohn] / ˈgɔlˌstoʊn /

noun

1. an abnormal stonelike mass, usually of cholesterol, formed in the gallbladder or bile passages.

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gallstone British  

/ ˈɡɔːlˌstəʊn /

noun

1. Also called: bilestone.  pathol a small hard concretion of cholesterol, bile pigments, and lime salts, formed in the gall bladder or its ducts

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gallstone Scientific  

/ gôl′stōn′ /

1. A small, hard, abnormal mass composed chiefly of cholesterol, calcium salts, and bile pigments, formed in the gallbladder or in a bile duct. The presence of gallstones can lead to painful obstruction or infection and is sometimes treated with cholecystectomy.

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gallstone Cultural  

1. A hard, pebblelike material deposited in the gallbladder or bile ducts by the process of chemical precipitation. Gallstones can cause considerable pain and can even obstruct the flow of bile from the gallbladder. On some occasions, the entire gallbladder must be removed by surgery.

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Etymology

Origin of gallstone

First recorded in 1750–60; gall ¹ + stone

Example Sentences

Most had positive experiences, with no gallstone complications.

From BBC • Jan. 29, 2026

In this patient’s case, the stuck gallstone blocked the flow of bilirubin into the gastrointestinal tract.

From New York Times • May 16, 2023

He was asked whether to remove a gallstone, if it was okay to begin chemotherapy, and whether this was a good time for a root canal.

From Washington Post • Oct. 26, 2022

He was feeling sick, and was ultimately diagnosed with gallstone pancreatitis.

From Slate • Sep. 7, 2021

"Why, it's nothing more than an enormous gallstone, revolving in space!"

From The Sloths of Kruvny by Fearing, Vern