GERD

noun

ˈgərd How to pronounce GERD (audio)
ˌjē-ˌē-ˌär-ˈdē
: a chronic condition that is characterized by frequent episodes of acid reflux usually accompanied by heartburn and often by irritation or inflammation of the esophageal epithelium : gastroesophageal reflux disease
… an endoscopy performed for evaluation of symptoms caused by the underlying GERD.Stuart Jon Spechler
If left untreated, GERD can lead to serious problems over time, such as esophagitis, ulcers on the esophagus and even esophageal cancer.Michelle George

Examples of GERD in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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In Ethiopia, which has faced years of internal armed conflict, largely along ethnic lines, the GERD has proven a source of national pride, said Mekdelawit Messay, an Ethiopian water researcher at Florida International University. CNN Money, 9 Sep. 2025 Fireworks lit up the sky the night before the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) was officially opened, and dancers dressed as engineers in hardhats performed at the colorful daytime ceremony attended by African dignitaries. Kate Bartlett, NPR, 9 Sep. 2025 More research is needed to determine the most effective strains and their optimal dosages for GERD. Merve Ceylan, Health, 14 Aug. 2025 The team's success with this experiment means this system could be an effective alternative to how GERD – a common chronic digestive condition – is currently monitored with the use of a tube that goes through your nose or mouth before being pinned to your esophagus. Abhimanyu Ghoshal, New Atlas, 25 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for GERD

Word History

First Known Use

1982, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of GERD was in 1982

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Cite this Entry

“GERD.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/GERD. Accessed 18 Sep. 2025.

Medical Definition

GERD

noun
: a chronic condition that is characterized by frequent episodes of acid reflux usually accompanied by heartburn and often by irritation or inflammation of the esophageal epithelium and that when untreated may sometimes progress to difficulty in swallowing, esophageal strictures or ulcers, Barrett's esophagus, or adenocarcinoma : gastroesophageal reflux disease

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