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 echinacea plant is packed with potent antioxidants, and contains a wide net of compounds that are thought to help reduce free radicals and combat inflammation in the body, says Megan Ramaika, a bariatric dietitian at Medstar Washington Hospital Center. —Caroline C. Boyle, USA Today, 21 Nov. 2025

Weight loss is the cornerstone of treatment and can significantly reduce liver fat and inflammation. —Katia Hetter, CNN Money, 21 Nov. 2025

The virus can lead to pneumonia, eye inflammation, diarrhea and ear infections, which can result in deafness in approximately 5 to 10% of cases. —Michal Ruprecht, NPR, 21 Nov. 2025

Research suggests curcumin may help protect your body against chronic inflammation, support your immune system, and aid in heart and liver health. —Lauren O'Connor, Health, 21 Nov. 2025

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