cirrhosis

noun

cir·​rho·​sis sə-ˈrō-səs 

plural cirrhoses sə-ˈrō-ˌsēz 

: widespread disruption of normal liver structure by fibrosis and the formation of regenerative nodules that is caused by any of various chronic progressive conditions affecting the liver (such as long-term alcohol abuse or hepatitis)

cirrhotic

sə-ˈrä-tik 

adjective or noun

Examples of cirrhosis in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Other contributing factors included hypertensive cardiovascular disease and cirrhosis due to alcoholism. — Sofi Zeman august 25, Kansas City Star, 26 Aug. 2026

Many insurers also still require proof of sobriety or documented cirrhosis before covering direct-acting antivirals. — William A. Haseltine, Forbes.com, 21 Aug. 2026

Studies also show that tomatoes can help reduce the risk of fatty liver disease, which can lead to cirrhosis, scarring of the liver, or even liver cancer. — Audrey Noble, Vogue, 24 July 2026

The liver-transplant reports renewed speculation about addiction because the most common reason people suffer serious liver dysfunction and need a new liver is cirrhosis, according to the American Liver Foundation. — Martha Ross, Mercury News, 17 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Greek kirrhos orange-colored; akin to Old English hār gray — more at hoar

First Known Use

circa 1847, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for cirrhosis

• fibrosis
• gliosis
• hypnosis
• ichthyosis
• ketosis
• kurtosis
• lordosis
• meiosis
• miosis
• mitosis
• mycosis
• narcosis

Kids Definition

cirrhosis

noun

cir·​rho·​sis sə-ˈrō-səs 

: an increase in fiber-containing tissue and hardening of the liver

Medical Definition

cirrhosis

noun

cir·​rho·​sis sə-ˈrō-səs 

plural cirrhoses -ˌsēz 

: widespread disruption of normal liver structure by fibrosis and the formation of regenerative nodules that is caused by any of various chronic progressive conditions affecting the liver (as long-term alcohol abuse or hepatitis) see biliary cirrhosis