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

Phrases Containing peristaltic

Rhymes for peristaltic

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peristaltic
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Cite this Entry

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

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Medical Definition

peristaltic

adjective
peri·​stal·​tic -tik How to pronounce peristaltic (audio)
: of, relating to, resulting from, or being peristalsis
peristaltic contractions

More from Merriam-Webster on peristaltic

Nglish: Translation of peristaltic for Spanish Speakers

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