GERD

noun

ˈgərd 

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

The second letter of the condition known as GERD refers to what body part, into which stomach acid refluxes during flare-ups of the disease? — Drew Goins, The Atlantic, 26 June 2026

The acidic nature of coffee can be a source of discomfort for people with acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). — Christina Manian, Health, 10 June 2026

Most research on the health effects of late-night eating center on sleep, diabetes, obesity, and acid reflux or GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease). — Kristen Rogers, CNN Money, 8 June 2026

Up to 1 in 5 American adults experience these symptoms at least twice a week, diagnosed as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). — Sarah Klein, Time, 30 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1982, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for GERD

• blurred
• burd
• curd
• curred
• furred
• gird
• herd
• kurd
• nerd
• purred
• sherd
• slurred

Medical Definition

GERD

noun

ˈgərd 

: 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