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peristalsis

Pronunciation: /ˌpɛrɪˈstalsɪs/

Definition of peristalsis

noun

[mass noun] Physiology
  • the involuntary constriction and relaxation of the muscles of the intestine or another canal, creating wave-like movements which push the contents of the canal forward.

Derivatives

peristaltic

adjective

peristaltically

adverb

Origin:

mid 19th century: modern Latin, from Greek peristallein 'wrap around', from peri- 'around' + stallein 'to place'

peristalsis in other Oxford dictionaries

Definition of peristalsis in the US English dictionary

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