insufflation

noun

in·​suf·​fla·​tion ˌin(t)-sə-ˈflā-shən How to pronounce insufflation (audio)
in-ˈsə-ˌflā-
: an act or the action of blowing on, into, or in: such as
a
: a Christian ceremonial rite of exorcism performed by breathing on a person
b
medicine : the act of blowing something (such as a drug in powdered form) into a body cavity
specifically : the introduction of a flow of gas into a body cavity
abdominal insufflation with carbon dioxide
insufflate transitive verb

Examples of insufflation in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web As far back as the 15th century, physicians believed rectal insufflation had reanimating powers. Emily McCrary-Ruiz-Esparza, Discover Magazine, 9 Oct. 2023

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'insufflation.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Middle English insufflacion, from Late Latin insufflation-, insufflatio, from insufflare to blow upon, from Latin in- + sufflare to inflate, from sub- + flare to blow — more at blow

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of insufflation was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near insufflation

Cite this Entry

“Insufflation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/insufflation. Accessed 29 Mar. 2024.

Medical Definition

insufflation

noun
in·​suf·​fla·​tion ˌin(t)-sə-ˈflā-shən, in-ˌsəf-ˈlā- How to pronounce insufflation (audio)
: the act of blowing something (as a drug in powdered form) into a body cavity
specifically : the introduction of a flow of gas into a body cavity
oxygen for tracheal gas insufflation
abdominal insufflation with carbon dioxide
insufflate transitive verb
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