Main Entry: in·flam·ma·tion

Pronunciation: \ˌin-flə-ˈmā-shən\

Function: noun

Date: 15th century

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