flatulence

[ flach-uh-luhns ]

noun

1. the condition of having an accumulation of gas in the alimentary canal:

   To avoid the uncomfortable feeling of flatulence, increase your fiber intake gradually.

2. the expulsion of alimentary gas through the anus:

   Symptoms include abdominal discomfort, flatulence, and headache.

3. inflated and empty speech or writing; unsupported pretension; pomposity:

   His lectures, noted for their flatulence, were popular fodder for mocking.

Word History and Origins

Origin of flatulence¹

First recorded in 1700–10; from French ; flatul(ent) ( def ) + -ence ( def )

Example Sentences

Denmark has agreed on how to implement the world’s first tax on agricultural emissions, including flatulence by livestock.

From BBC

Throwing punches around and preaching from chairs while engaging in loud flatulence are also known symptoms.

From Salon

The inability to belch can cause bloating, pain, gurgling in the neck and chest, and excessive flatulence as built-up air seeks an alternate exit route.

From Salon

This amount of air depends on the balance between the intake, production and elimination of gas through belching, flatulence or its consumption by the intestinal microbiota.

From Salon

“It’s weird, it’s uncertain, it’s scary,” said Mr. Sandin, 57, the group’s drummer who was nicknamed Smelly for the drug-fueled flatulence of his earlier days.

From New York Times