Phrases starting with the letter: A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
Previous word: perissodactyl
Next word: peristasis
Definition of: peristalsis
(per′ə·stôl′sis, -stal′-) noun plural ·ses (-sēz) Physiol.
A contractile muscular movement of any hollow organ of the body, as of the alimentary canal and intestines, whereby the contents are gradually propelled toward the point of expulsion. Compare SYSTALTIC. [<NL <Gk. peristaltikos <peristellein surround <peri- around + stellein place]
—per′i·stal′tic adjective
Comment about this word, ask questions, or add new information about this topic: