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

The goal is to reduce brain inflammation, improve blood flow, lower harmful proteins and give the brain a steadier supply of fuel. — Samantha Agate, Miami Herald, 25 July 2026

The goal is to reduce brain inflammation, improve blood flow, lower harmful proteins and give the brain steady fuel. — Samantha Agate, Kansas City Star, 25 July 2026

However, sometimes these spill into surrounding tissues and digest the pancreas itself, with more enzyme spillage and severe inflammation — a vicious cycle. — The Washington Post, San Diego Union-Tribune, 25 July 2026

Experts say long flights, like the 18-hour journey the 49ers and Rams will take, are tough on inflammation and blood flow. — Chris Biderman, Sacbee.com, 25 July 2026

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