menses

noun

men·​ses ˈmen-(ˌ)sēz How to pronounce menses (audio)
plural in form but singular or plural in construction
Synonyms of mensesnext
: the menstrual flow

Examples of menses 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.
During the menses phase (your period), estrogen and progesterone are at their lowest levels. — Dan Gordon, CNN, 23 Dec. 2022 Irregular menstrual cycles, or no periods at all, abnormal bleeding during your cycle, and significant or unusual pain before and during menses or intercourse, says Aghajanova. — Jeanne Erdmann, Discover Magazine, 2 Apr. 2021

Word History

Etymology

Latin, literally, months, plural of mensis month — more at moon

First Known Use

1597, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of menses was in 1597

Rhymes for menses

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Browse Nearby Words

mense
menses
Menshevik
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Cite this Entry

“Menses.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/menses. Accessed 30 Mar. 2025.

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Kids Definition

menses

singular or plural noun
men·​ses ˈmen-ˌsēz How to pronounce menses (audio)
: the menstrual flow

Medical Definition

menses

noun, plural in form but singular or plural in construction
men·​ses ˈmen-ˌsēz How to pronounce menses (audio)
: the menstrual flow

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