embolism

noun

em·​bo·​lism ˈem-bə-ˌli-zəm 

plural embolisms

1

: the insertion of one or more days in a calendar : intercalation

2

a

: the sudden obstruction of a blood vessel by an embolus

b

: embolus

embolismic

ˌem-bə-ˈliz-mik 

adjective

Examples of embolism in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

If untreated, blood clotting during pregnancy can lead to serious conditions like pulmonary embolism (PE), which can be fatal.1 Thankfully, there are many treatment options available for blood clots during pregnancy. —​wendy Wisner, Parents, 30 July 2024

Many of the deaths happen because of pregnancy and labor and delivery complications such as a hemorrhage, blood clots in the lungs (pulmonary embolism) or the brain (stroke), an infection, or a cardiac event such as a heart attack. —Bayliss Wagner, Austin American-Statesman, 28 June 2024

Jocelyn Wildenstein was in some serious legal hot water before her death of a pulmonary embolism on Dec. 31 in Paris at age 84. —Madeleine Marr, Miami Herald, 3 Jan. 2025

This fat can travel to the lungs and cause blockage, or a fat embolism, preventing the body from getting oxygen.10 Compartment syndrome: This condition develops when pressure builds up to dangerous levels within the muscles. —Maggie Aime, Msn, Health, 25 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English embolisme, from Medieval Latin embolismus, from Greek embol- (from emballein to insert, intercalate) — more at emblem

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

embolism

noun

em·​bo·​lism ˈem-bə-ˌliz-əm 

1

: the sudden blocking of a blood vessel by an embolus

2

: embolus

Medical Definition

embolism

noun

em·​bo·​lism ˈem-bə-ˌliz-əm 

1

: the sudden obstruction of a blood vessel by an embolus

2

: embolus