peristaltic

adjective

peri·​stal·​tic ˌper-ə-ˈstȯl-tik How to pronounce peristaltic (audio)
-ˈstäl-,
-ˈstal-
1
: of, relating to, resulting from, or being peristalsis
2
: having an action suggestive of peristalsis

Examples of peristaltic 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.
Case’s drilling concept generates the force needed for the tip from the peristaltic segments within the borehole. IEEE Spectrum, 10 Mar. 2025 Many have suckers at the front end, to attach to the bowel of the host; some have hooks that can be engaged or released depending on whether the worm needs to move with or against the peristaltic flow of the intestine itself. Jerome Groopman, The New Yorker, 5 Dec. 2022

Word History

Etymology

Greek peristaltikos, from peristellein to wrap around, from peri- + stellein to place

First Known Use

1652, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of peristaltic was in 1652

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Peristaltic.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/peristaltic. Accessed 22 Mar. 2025.

Medical Definition

peristaltic

adjective
: of, relating to, resulting from, or being peristalsis
peristaltic contractions

More from Merriam-Webster on peristaltic

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