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

This is why people with digestive conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) may want to monitor portion sizes and increase intake gradually. —Daryl Austin, USA Today, 8 Mar. 2026

Furthermore, those with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) may find that ice-cold drinks trigger digestive discomfort. —Khloe Quill, FOXNews.com, 7 Mar. 2026

More recently, trials of transcutaneous devices, often placed around the neck or in the outer ear, have shown promising results in treating conditions including diabetes, Crohn’s disease, fibromyalgia and irritable bowel syndrome. —Chas Newkey-Burden, TheWeek, 2 Mar. 2026

Plus, probiotic foods aren’t ideal for everyone—including those with histamine intolerance, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), or active gut issues. —Michele Ross, SELF, 24 Feb. 2026

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