hernia

noun

her·​nia ˈhər-nē-ə 

plural hernias or herniae ˈhər-nē-ˌē  -nē-ˌī 

: a protrusion of an organ or part (such as the intestine) through connective tissue or through a wall of the cavity (as of the abdomen) in which it is normally enclosed

called also rupture

hernial

ˈhər-nē-əl 

adjective

Examples of hernia in a Sentence

He was treated for hernia.

Recent Examples on the Web

With Fraley still sidelined after a setback during rehab from hernia surgery, Mesa may continue to get opportunity pending any trade acquisitions. — Marc Topkin, The Orlando Sentinel, 25 July 2026

Story has been sidelined since May 15 due to a sports hernia injury that had plagued him since spring training. — Mac Cerullo, Boston Herald, 20 July 2026

The actor died of a heart attack following a two-month-long hospitalization for a hernia and was survived by his wife, Gail Reid Mayo, and their three children. — Emily Blackwood, PEOPLE, 17 July 2026

Story had been progressing from sports hernia surgery more quickly than expected. — Jen McCaffrey, New York Times, 15 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English hernia, hernie, hirnia, borrowed from Latin hernia, hirnia, of uncertain origin

Note: See note at haruspex.

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing hernia

• hiatal hernia

Kids Definition

hernia

noun

her·​nia ˈhər-nē-ə 

plural hernias or herniae -nē-ˌē 

-nē-ˌī

: a sticking out of an organ or part through connective tissue or through a wall of the cavity in which it is normally enclosed

called also rupture

Medical Definition

hernia

noun

her·​nia ˈhər-nē-ə 

plural hernias or herniae -nē-ˌē  -nē-ˌī 

: a protrusion of an organ or part through connective tissue or through a wall of the cavity in which it is normally enclosed

called also rupture

see abdominal hernia, hiatal hernia, strangulated hernia

hernial

-nē-əl 

adjective