peritonitis

[ per-i-tn-ahy-tis ]

noun

, Pathology.

1. inflammation of the peritoneum, often accompanied by pain and tenderness in the abdomen, vomiting, constipation, and moderate fever.

peritonitis

/ ˌpɛrɪtəˈnaɪtɪs; ˌpɛrɪtəˈnɪtɪk /

noun

1. inflammation of the peritoneum

peritonitis

/ pĕr′ĭ-tn-ī′tĭs /

1. Infection or inflammation of the peritoneal cavity, usually caused by a ruptured organ, such as the appendix, in the gastrointestinal tract.

Derived Forms

• peritonitic, adjective

Other Words From

• per·i·to·nit·ic [per-i-tn-, it, -ik], peri·to·nital adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of peritonitis¹

First recorded in 1770–80; periton(eum) + -itis

Example Sentences

Fatal peritonitis soon brings on a state of painful uneasiness ill adapted to the proper dispositions for the Sacraments.

From Project Gutenberg

Think, Gentlemen, of a child in the last stages of septic peritonitis, practically dead.

From Project Gutenberg

This sounded like an advanced case, perhaps already involving peritonitis.

From Project Gutenberg

Acute cases are dangerous as they are apt to cause post-operative peritonitis.

From Project Gutenberg

Death in the fatal cases was attributed to pulmonary embolism, peritonitis, and in two to heart failure.

From Project Gutenberg