irritable bowel syndrome

noun

: a chronic functional disorder of the colon that is characterized especially by constipation or diarrhea, cramping abdominal pain, and the passage of mucus in the stool

—abbreviation IBS

Examples of irritable bowel syndrome in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Peppermint Tea People with inflammatory digestive diseases like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or IBD may benefit from sipping peppermint tea. —Jillian Kubala, Health, 26 Dec. 2025

Researchers have found that ginger supplements are effective in managing gastrointestinal disorders, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). —Mark Gurarie, Verywell Health, 26 Dec. 2025

Too much stress can lead to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), a condition that disproportionately affects women when compared to men, according to research. —Ayana Underwood, Outside, 11 Dec. 2025

Many women deal with the uncomfortable impacts of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and turn to their doctors for relief. —Helen Carefoot, Flow Space, 21 Nov. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1943, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for irritable bowel syndrome

• acrosome
• aerodrome
• catacomb
• centrosome
• chromosome
• cytochrome
• hippodrome
• honeycomb
• liposome
• meerschaum
• metronome
• microtome

Medical Definition

irritable bowel syndrome

noun

: a chronic functional disorder of the colon that is of unknown etiology but is often associated with abnormal intestinal motility and increased sensitivity to visceral pain and that is characterized by diarrhea or constipation or diarrhea alternating with constipation, abdominal pain or discomfort, abdominal bloating, and passage of mucus in the stool

—abbreviation IBS

called also irritable colon, irritable colon syndrome, mucous colitis, spastic colon