Definition

A condition where a part of the body or an organ becomes swollen or enlarged.

Example

The doctor explained that intumescence can occur due to inflammation or injury.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of the term intumescence?

Yeah, it refers to something being swollen, right?

Exactly! I read that it can describe both plants and animals.

That's interesting! I didn't know it could apply to both.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Intumescence → It is formed from "in-" (meaning into or within) and "tumescere" (meaning to swell). The word describes the process of swelling or becoming swollen from within.

Memory Tip

Think of something 'swelling up' from 'within' — 'in-' means into, and 'tumescere' means to swell.

Visually Confused Words