Definition

Relating to the wave-like muscle contractions that move food through the digestive system.

Example

The peristaltic movements of the intestines help in digesting food.

Conversation

Did you read about how our digestive system uses peristaltic movements?

Yeah, it's fascinating how it pushes food through the intestines.

I never realized how important those peristaltic actions are for digestion.

Totally! It’s amazing how our bodies work without us even thinking about it.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Peristaltic → It is formed from "peri-" (meaning around) and "staltein" (Greek, meaning to send or to constrict). The word describes the wave-like muscle contractions that move food through the digestive tract, occurring around the tube of the intestines.

Memory Tip

Imagine muscles 'constricting' ('staltein') in a wave-like motion 'around' ('peri-') the intestines to help move food along. This helps you remember that 'peristaltic' refers to the movement in the digestive system.

Visually Confused Words