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

Earlier this month, the right-hander dealt with right shoulder inflammation, which required an MRI. —Valentina Martinez, MSNBC Newsweek, 1 June 2025

Treatments such as nasal steroid sprays and saline rinses may be recommended to improve inflammation and sinus drainage.11 What Are the Underlying Causes of Sinus Infections? —Cathy Nelson, Verywell Health, 31 May 2025

Packed with vitamin E, the formula helps your skin retain moisture, acts as an antioxidant, promotes collagen production, and reduces redness and inflammation. —Izzy Baskette, People.com, 30 May 2025

That said, some studies suggest that applying magnesium oil directly to the arms, legs, and torso can help reduce pain and inflammation. —Valentina Bottoni, Vogue, 29 May 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