prolapse

American  

[proh-laps, proh-laps, proh-laps] / proʊˈlæps, ˈproʊ læps, proʊˈlæps /

noun

1. Pathology. a falling down of an organ or part, as the uterus, from its normal position.

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verb (used without object)

prolapsed, prolapsing

1. to fall or slip down or out of place.

prolapse British  

/ ˈprəʊlæps, prəʊˈlæps /

noun

1. Also called: prolapsus.  the sinking or falling down of an organ or part, esp the womb Compare proptosis

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verb

1. (of an organ, etc) to sink from its normal position

Etymology

Origin of prolapse

First recorded in 1555–65, prolapse is from the Late Latin word prōlāpsus a slipping forth. See pro- ¹, lapse

Example Sentences

When these muscles become overly tight or loose, patients can experience issues like pelvic pain, pelvic organ prolapse, sexual dysfunction, and incontinence—which all have serious implications if left untreated.

From Slate • Oct. 6, 2025

Through the procedure, mesh implants are placed into the body to treat pelvic organ prolapse which can occur after childbirth.

From BBC • May 12, 2025

She had been admitted to hospital on 7 February following a sudden loss of mobility in her lower limbs after a disc prolapse.

From BBC • Apr. 14, 2025

Not long after my panicked online search, the bulge I felt when removing my menstrual cup receded back upward along with any fears I had surrounding prolapse.

From Salon • Oct. 25, 2024

Straining efforts made in defaecation may often account for prolapse of the lower end of the rectum through the anus.

From Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 8, Slice 4 "Diameter" to "Dinarchus" by Various

Related Words

• cascade
• collapse
• crash
• dip
• disembark
• dive
• go down
• penetrate
• plummet
• plunge
• settle
• sink
• slide
• stumble
• subside
• swoop
• trickle
• tumble