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

The poop abnormalities were also more common among people already diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), a chronic GI disorder. —Sarah Garone, Health, 30 July 2025

Thousands of people who suffer from irritable bowel syndrome swear off a range of food categories to improve their symptoms. —New Atlas, 23 July 2025

In fact, the particular strain has shown promising results against those suffering from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms, too. —Brianna Peters, Vogue, 30 June 2025

Intermittent fasting, for example, may be unsuitable for people with pre-existing conditions or irritable bowel syndrome. —Desireé Oostland, Vogue, 17 July 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