hernia

noun

her·​nia ˈhər-nē-ə 

plural hernias or herniae ˈhər-nē-ˌē  -nē-ˌī 

: a protrusion of an organ or part (such as the intestine) through connective tissue or through a wall of the cavity (as of the abdomen) in which it is normally enclosed

called also rupture

hernial

ˈhər-nē-əl 

adjective

Examples of hernia in a Sentence

He was treated for hernia.

Recent Examples on the Web

Fourth-round pick T.J Tampa (sports hernia surgery) is on the physically unable to perform list and has been sidelined throughout training camp. —Taylor Lyons, Baltimore Sun, 10 Aug. 2024

While this may come with some mild discomfort, any pain should be reported to your healthcare provider, as this could signal an umbilical hernia in rare cases. —Cristina Mutchler, Verywell Health, 29 July 2024

Others are expected to contribute as well, including fourth-round corner T.J. Tampa, who should return from double sports hernia surgery in a couple of weeks. —Brian Wacker, Baltimore Sun, 1 Aug. 2024

And good luck counting the easter eggs: The movie would give a basket-carrying bunny a hernia. —Tom Gliatto, Peoplemag, 26 July 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English hernia, hernie, hirnia, borrowed from Latin hernia, hirnia, of uncertain origin

Note: See note at haruspex.

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing hernia

• hiatal hernia

Kids Definition

hernia

noun

her·​nia ˈhər-nē-ə 

plural hernias or herniae -nē-ˌē 

-nē-ˌī

: a sticking out of an organ or part through connective tissue or through a wall of the cavity in which it is normally enclosed

called also rupture

Medical Definition

hernia

noun

her·​nia ˈhər-nē-ə 

plural hernias or herniae -nē-ˌē  -nē-ˌī 

: a protrusion of an organ or part through connective tissue or through a wall of the cavity in which it is normally enclosed

called also rupture

see abdominal hernia, hiatal hernia, strangulated hernia

hernial

-nē-əl 

adjective