achalasia

[ ak-uh-ley-zhuh, -zhee-uh, -zee-uh ]

noun

, Medicine/Medical.

1. inability of a circular muscle, especially of the esophagus or rectum, to relax, resulting in widening of the structure above the muscular constriction.

achalasia

/ ˌækəˈleɪzɪə /

noun

1. pathol failure of the cardiac sphincter of the oesophagus to relax, resulting in difficulty in swallowing

Word History and Origins

Origin of achalasia¹

1910–15; a- ⁶ + Greek chálas ( is ) ( chala- (stem of chalân to loosen) + -sis -sis ) + -ia

Word History and Origins

Origin of achalasia¹

New Latin, from a- ¹+ Greek chalasis relaxation

Example Sentences

The plays thrust Smith into an unexpected spotlight, and he gave interview after interview that week reliving not just his role in The Tip but also his route to the NFL from seventh-round pick who had overcome the rare throat condition called Achalasia, which causes difficulty swallowing, while in college.

From Seattle Times

After giving birth, Rivera underwent surgery for a medical condition known as achalasia that caused her esophagus to close up, further preventing her from working at her job as a teacher at a daycare.

From Salon

The surgery was designed to help her manage this oesophageal disease, called achalasia.

From BBC

He suffers from recurring achalasia, a condition caused by narrowing of the oesophagus, and has been regularly hospitalised for treatment.

From The Guardian

Eventually, Smith was diagnosed with achalasia, a rare disease that makes swallowing, and therefore eating, difficult.

From Seattle Times