appendicitis

noun

ap·​pen·​di·​ci·​tis ə-ˌpen-də-ˈsī-təs 

: inflammation of the vermiform appendix

Examples of appendicitis in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Older clinical concerns suggested that appendicitis or appendectomy might impair fertility by causing inflammation and scarring – known as tubal adhesions – in the fallopian tubes. —Lilia Goncharova, The Conversation, 9 Mar. 2026

Apparently, symptoms of drug abuse (specifically, methamphetamines) can resemble those of appendicitis. —Literary Hub, 2 Mar. 2026

My editor has watched her teenage daughter miss various dance competitions each of the last three years due to two separate injuries and a bout with appendicitis. —Jonathan Carone, Parents, 16 Feb. 2026

Eric Lee, an immigration attorney who has represented families at Dilley, described a child suffering from appendicitis who collapsed in pain after having been denied meaningful medical attention. —Mike Hixenbaugh, NBC news, 6 Feb. 2026

Word History

Etymology

New Latin appendic-, appendix "vermiform appendix" + -itis

First Known Use

1886, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

appendicitis

noun

ap·​pen·​di·​ci·​tis ə-ˌpen-də-ˈsīt-əs 

: inflammation of the appendix

Medical Definition

appendicitis

noun

ap·​pen·​di·​ci·​tis ə-ˌpen-də-ˈsīt-əs 

: inflammation of the vermiform appendix

called also epityphlitis