peristaltic

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

/ ˌpɛr əˈstɔl tɪk, -ˈstæl- /

of, relating to, or resembling peristalsis.

QUIZZES

Even if you can't be a professional chef, you can at least talk like one with this vocabulary quiz.

Question 1 of 9

You may have read the word "simmer" in a recipe or two, but what does it really mean?

1645–55; <Greek peristaltikós compressing, equivalent to peri-peri- + stal- (see peristalsis) + -tikos-tic

per·i·stal·ti·cal·ly, adverbhy·per·per·i·stal·tic, adjective

Absence of peristaltic sounds is always an indication of disease, and suggests exhaustion or paralysis of the intestines.
Special Report on Diseases of the Horse|United States Department of Agriculture
The peristaltic waves generally pass from left to right, rarely in the opposite direction as well.
A System of Practical Medicine By American Authors, Vol. II|Various
The ganglia of Auerbach and of Meissner in the intestinal wall are sufficient for the development of peristaltic waves.
A System of Practical Medicine By American Authors, Vol. II|Various
Peristaltic movements are constantly taking place in the digestive tract.
Psychotherapy|James J. Walsh

In either of these cases, the peristaltic action of the intestines becomes enfeebled, and constipation ensues.
A Newly Discovered System of Electrical Medication|Daniel Clark