: an abnormal often painful persistent erection of the penis

Examples of priapism in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
And spare a kind thought for the poor guy who encountered Jenn before Anson, who perished from extreme priapism. Jennifer Ouellette, Ars Technica, 10 Sep. 2023 But for those with two such genes, the potential complications include acute pain episodes, acute chest syndrome, strokes, priapism, jaundice, numb chin syndrome, an enlarged spleen, leg ulcers, and damaged blood cells in the retina, which can lead to blindness. Krithika Varagur, Harper's Magazine, 10 July 2023

Word History

Etymology

French priapisme, from Middle French, ultimately from Greek Priapos (traditionally portrayed in Greco-Roman art with an erect penis)

First Known Use

1601, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of priapism was in 1601

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Priapism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/priapism. Accessed 28 Jul. 2025.

Medical Definition

: an abnormal, more or less persistent, and often painful erection of the penis
especially : one caused by disease rather than sexual desire

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