colic

noun col·ic \ ˈkä-lik \

Definition of colic

1 : an attack of acute abdominal pain localized in a hollow organ and often caused by spasm, obstruction, or twisting

2 : a condition marked by recurrent episodes of prolonged and uncontrollable crying and irritability in an otherwise healthy infant that is of unknown cause and usually subsides after three to four months of age

See colic defined for English-language learners

See colic defined for kids

Origin and Etymology of colic

Middle English, from Medieval Latin colica (passio) intestinal (suffering), from Late Latin colicus of the colon, colicky, from Greek kōlikos, from kōlon, alteration of kolon colon

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First Known Use: 15th century

in the meaning defined at sense 1

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colic

adjective

Definition of colic

: of or relating to colic : colicky

colic crying

First Known Use of colic

15th century

in the meaning defined above

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colic

adjective co·lic \ ˈkō-lik , ˈkä- \

Definition of colic

: of or relating to the colon

colic lymph nodes

First Known Use of colic

1615

in the meaning defined above

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COLIC Defined for English Language Learners

colic

noun

Definition of colic for English Language Learners

: a sharp sudden pain in the stomach
: a physical condition in which a baby is very uncomfortable and cries for long periods of time

COLIC Defined for Kids

colic

noun col·ic \ ˈkä-lik \

Definition of colic for Students

1 : sharp pain in the intestines

2 : a condition in which a healthy baby is uncomfortable and cries for long periods of time

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colicky

\ˈkä-lə-kē\ adjective

Medical Dictionary

colic

noun col·ic \ ˈkäl-ik \

medical Definition of colic

1 : an attack of acute abdominal pain localized in a hollow organ or part (as the small intestine, ureter, or bile duct) and often caused by spasm, obstruction, or twisting