heartburn

American  

[hahrt-burn] / ˈhɑrtˌbɜrn /

noun

1. an uneasy burning sensation in the stomach, typically extending toward the esophagus, and sometimes associated with the eructation of an acid fluid.

2. bitter jealousy; envy.

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heartburn British  

/ ˈhɑːtˌbɜːn /

noun

1. Technical names: cardialgia.   pyrosis.  a burning sensation beneath the breastbone caused by irritation of the oesophagus, as from regurgitation of the contents of the stomach

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heartburn Scientific  

/ härt′bûrn′ /

1. A burning sensation, usually centered in the middle of the chest near the sternum, caused by the reflux of acidic stomach fluids that enter the lower end of the esophagus.

2. Also called acid reflux

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heartburn Cultural  

1. A burning sensation in the middle of the chest at the junction of the esophagus and stomach, caused by stomach acids that back up and enter the lower end of the esophagus.

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Etymology

Origin of heartburn

First recorded in 1590–1600; translation of Greek kardialgía; heart + burn ¹

Example Sentences

While the towers and cables are still in good shape, fixing the deck has caused heartburn.

From Los Angeles Times

“It would have saved us a lot of heartburn and grief. Would it have changed the ultimate outcome of the case? Probably not.”

From Los Angeles Times

There could be continued heartburn over the terms of the Skydance deal.

From Los Angeles Times

The dietary predilections of those striving for high office have long caused them varying degrees of heartburn.

From Los Angeles Times

Before Aidan’s diagnosis he had experienced several months of severe heartburn, but he did not get it checked out straight away.

From BBC

Related Words

• indigestion