Definition

The process or condition in which an organ or tissue bulges through an abnormal opening in the surrounding muscle or tissue.

Example

The doctor explained that herniation can cause pain and discomfort in the affected area.

Conversation

I heard you had to visit the doctor recently, what happened?

Yeah, I found out I have a herniation in my back.

Oh no, that sounds painful!

It is, but I'm hoping physical therapy will help.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Herniation → It is formed from "hernia" (from Latin *hernia*, meaning a rupture or protrusion) and the suffix "-ation" (meaning the action or process of). The word "herniation" refers to the process of a part of the body protruding through an abnormal opening.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'rupture' ('hernia') that is happening as a 'process' ('-ation') — that's what herniation means.

Visually Confused Words