diarrhea

noun

di·​ar·​rhea ˌdī-ə-ˈrē-ə 

1

: abnormally frequent intestinal evacuations with more or less fluid stools (see stool entry 1 sense 3a)

symptoms include fever, nausea, and diarrhea

2

: excessive flow

verbal diarrhea

diarrheal

ˌdī-ə-ˈrē-əl 

adjective

diarrheic

ˌdī-ə-ˈrē-ik 

adjective

diarrhetic

ˌdī-ə-ˈre-tik 

adjective

Synonyms

• Delhi belly
• flux
• Montezuma's revenge
• runs
• trots
• turista

Examples of diarrhea in a Sentence

The symptoms of the disease include fever, nausea, and diarrhea.

I was taken with severe diarrhea while attending the conference.

Recent Examples on the Web

Gastrointestinal diseases cause a wide range of symptoms, including heartburn, constipation, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. —Mark Gurarie, Health, 2 Nov. 2024

Infections can produce a range of unpleasant symptoms, including painful stomach cramps, bloody diarrhea and vomiting. —Nina Turner, Newsweek, 31 Oct. 2024

The condition can cause improper nutrient absorption, decreased appetite, or diarrhea. —Jay N. Yepuri, Verywell Health, 29 Oct. 2024

Symptoms that accompany the syndrome include hives, low blood pressure, challenges with breathing, severe diarrhea and swelling. —Elizabeth Ayoola, Essence, 26 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English diaria, from Late Latin diarrhoea, from Greek diarrhoia, from diarrhein to flow through, from dia- + rhein to flow — more at stream

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing diarrhea

• traveler's diarrhea

Kids Definition

diarrhea

noun

di·​ar·​rhea ˌdī-ə-ˈrē-ə 

: abnormally frequent and watery bowel movements

Medical Definition

diarrhea

noun

di·​ar·​rhea

variants or chiefly British diarrhoea

ˌdī-ə-ˈrē-ə 

: abnormally frequent intestinal evacuations with more or less fluid stools