edema

noun

ede·​ma i-ˈdē-mə 

1

: an abnormal infiltration and excess accumulation of serous fluid in connective tissue or in a serous cavity

called also dropsy

2

a

: watery swelling of plant organs or parts

b

: any of various plant diseases characterized by such swellings

Examples of edema in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

This can lead to water retention in the arms and legs (peripheral edema) and in the abdomen. —Laura Schober, Health, 2 Oct. 2024

They’re often prescribed for high blood pressure, edema (swelling caused by fluid retention), and heart failure, among other things. —Erica Sloan, SELF, 22 Oct. 2024

Emergency medical care is necessary to treat pulmonary edema. —Laura Schober, Health, 2 Oct. 2024

This gadget is a reliable option for anyone who struggles with edema or sore muscles. —Mia Meltzer, Rolling Stone, 2 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Greek oidēma swelling, from oidein to swell; akin to Armenian aytnu- swell, Old English ātor poison

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

edema

noun

ede·​ma i-ˈdē-mə 

: an abnormal collection of watery fluid in a bodily tissue or cavity

Medical Definition

edema

noun

ede·​ma

variants or chiefly British oedema

i-ˈdē-mə 

plural edemas or chiefly British oedemas also edemata

-mət-ə

or chiefly British oedemata

: an abnormal excess accumulation of serous fluid in connective tissue or in a serous cavity

called also dropsy