peristalsis Hear it!

peristalsis definition

peri·stal·sis (per′ə stal′sis, -stôl′-)

noun pl. peristalses -·ses′ (-sēz′)

the rhythmic, wavelike motion of the walls of the alimentary canal and certain other hollow organs, consisting of alternate contractions and dilations of transverse and longitudinal muscles that move the contents of the tube onward

Etymology: ModL < Gr peristaltikos < peristellein, to surround, involve < peri-, around + stellein, to place: for IE base see stalk

Related Forms:

Webster's New World College Dictionary Copyright © 2005 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

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