appendicitis

noun

ap·​pen·​di·​ci·​tis ə-ˌpen-də-ˈsī-təs How to pronounce appendicitis (audio)
: inflammation of the vermiform appendix

Examples of appendicitis 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.
Eric Lee, an immigration attorney who has represented families at Dilley, described a child suffering from appendicitis who collapsed in pain after having been denied meaningful medical attention. Mike Hixenbaugh, NBC news, 6 Feb. 2026 For example, conditions like appendicitis or gallbladder disease may be harder to diagnose because the pain occurs on an unexpected side of the body. Tom Gavin, EverydayHealth.com, 2 Feb. 2026 Fearing something serious, such as appendicitis, the mother complied — only to be left with a $7,000 bill for an 11-mile ride. Armin Pazooki, Chicago Tribune, 27 Jan. 2026 In addition to pain, appendicitis is marked by nausea and vomiting, a loss of appetite, a low fever, constipation or diarrhea, and/or bloating. Rachel Raposas, PEOPLE, 8 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for appendicitis

Word History

Etymology

New Latin appendic-, appendix "vermiform appendix" + -itis

First Known Use

1886, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of appendicitis was in 1886

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Appendicitis.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/appendicitis. Accessed 15 Feb. 2026.

Kids Definition

appendicitis

noun
ap·​pen·​di·​ci·​tis ə-ˌpen-də-ˈsīt-əs How to pronounce appendicitis (audio)
: inflammation of the appendix

Medical Definition

appendicitis

noun
ap·​pen·​di·​ci·​tis ə-ˌpen-də-ˈsīt-əs How to pronounce appendicitis (audio)
: inflammation of the vermiform appendix

called also epityphlitis

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