distensible

adjective

dis·​ten·​si·​ble di-ˈsten(t)-sə-bəl How to pronounce distensible (audio)
: capable of being distended
distensibility noun

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web The cardia lies about 40 cm from the teeth and the sword straightens the flexible and distensible oesophagus. Seriously Science, Discover Magazine, 16 Dec. 2014 For example, the angler fish developed such a freakishly large jaw and a distensible stomach because the fish needs to take advantage of every prey opportunity available because food is scarce so far below sea level, according to The New York Times. Daisy Hernandez, Popular Mechanics, 30 July 2019

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'distensible.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Word History

Etymology

distens- (from Latin distensus, past participle of distendere) + -ible

First Known Use

circa 1828, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of distensible was circa 1828

Dictionary Entries Near distensible

Cite this Entry

“Distensible.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/distensible. Accessed 24 Mar. 2023.

Medical Definition

distensible

adjective
dis·​ten·​si·​ble -ˈten(t)-sə-bəl How to pronounce distensible (audio)
: capable of being distended, extended, or dilated
distensible blood vessels
distensibility noun
plural distensibilities
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