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

This builds on a 2023 study from his team, which found elevated inflammation in these same brain regions. — Catherina Gioino, Fortune, 14 Sep. 2026

My laboratory previously discovered that exosomes in the blood of patients with an active shingles rash can increase stroke risk and inflammation. — Andrew Bubak, The Conversation, 14 Sep. 2026

By April 4, he’d been placed on the 15-day IL with left hip inflammation, an ailment that later required a move to the 60-day IL in May. — Johnny Flores Jr, New York Times, 13 Sep. 2026

The Dodgers said his knee inflammation was only aggravated by pitching and the biceps tightness was tied to hitting. — Assistant Sports Editor, Los Angeles Times, 11 Sep. 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