Definition

To push out through an abnormal opening in the body.

Example

The doctor explained that the tissue could herniate if not treated properly.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I heard that if you lift weights incorrectly, you could herniate something.

Wow, that's scary! I always try to be careful at the gym.

Yeah, I know someone who actually did herniate a disc while working out.

Yikes! I think I’ll stick to lighter weights just to be safe.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Herniate → It is formed from "hernia" (from Latin *hernia*, meaning a rupture or protrusion of an organ) and "-ate" (a suffix used to form verbs indicating the action of). The word "herniate" means to cause a hernia or to undergo the process of forming a hernia.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'hernia' as a rupture and remember that 'herniate' means to cause or undergo that rupture.

Visually Confused Words