inflammation

noun

in·​flam·​ma·​tion ˌin-flə-ˈmā-shən 

1

: a local response to cellular injury that is marked by capillary dilatation, leukocytic infiltration, redness, heat, and pain and that serves as a mechanism initiating the elimination of noxious agents and of damaged tissue

2

: the act of inflaming : the state of being inflamed

Examples of inflammation in a Sentence

The drug is used to reduce inflammation.

inflammations of the throat and ears

Recent Examples on the Web

Vitamin D reduces inflammation, vitamin C promotes collagen synthesis, and vitamin A regulates cell growth. —Megan McIntyre, Allure, 26 Feb. 2025

Drinking tea has long been linked to various health benefits, including a lower risk of heart disease and inflammation in the body. —Daniel Wine, CNN, 26 Feb. 2025

Antibiotics: Antibiotics may also be used to reduce inflammation. —Patty Weasler, Rn, Bsn, Verywell Health, 25 Feb. 2025

Plus, the hydrocolloid film draws fluid and pus out of the pimple, and the patch absorbs it, thereby reducing inflammation and helping the blemish shrink and heal. —Stacey Colino, TIME, 25 Feb. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing inflammation

• anti-inflammation

Rhymes for inflammation

• abdication
• aberration
• abjuration
• abnegation
• abrogation
• acceptation
• acclamation
• acclimation
• accusation
• activation
• actuation
• acylation

Kids Definition

inflammation

noun

in·​flam·​ma·​tion ˌin-flə-ˈmā-shən 

1

: the act of inflaming : the state of being inflamed

2

: a bodily response to injury in which heat, redness, pain, swelling, and more than the usual amount of blood are present in the area affected

Medical Definition

inflammation

noun

in·​flam·​ma·​tion ˌin-flə-ˈmā-shən 

: a local response to cellular injury that is marked by capillary dilatation, leukocytic infiltration, redness, heat, pain, swelling, and often loss of function and that serves as a mechanism initiating the elimination of noxious agents and of damaged tissue