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

Some studies have described BPC-157 being used to treat knee pain, a chronic bladder condition known as interstitial cystitis and ulcerative colitis, a common type of inflammatory bowel disease that can cause inflammation and ulcers in the colon. — Jacqueline Howard, CNN Money, 31 July 2026

Reduced Osteoarthritis Joint Pain Collagen peptides support connective tissue and reduce inflammation, helping reduce symptoms such as pain and swelling from osteoarthritis (degenerative joint disease). — Ayesha Gulzar, Verywell Health, 31 July 2026

The review points out a hormone known as fibroblast growth factor 21, which rises when protein intake is reduced, to boost energy, blood sugar control and reduce inflammation. — Antonio Pequeño Iv, Forbes.com, 31 July 2026

Cofounded by Juliette Lailler and Marie Belile, Krème touts clean, creamy formulations and focuses on nourishing the skin’s microbiome, which shields against germs, pathogens and inflammation. — Samantha Conti, Footwear News, 31 July 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