Definition

A painful feeling of needing to urinate or have a bowel movement, but being unable to do so effectively.

Example

After eating the spicy food, he experienced tenesmus and rushed to the bathroom.

Conversation

I've been feeling really uncomfortable lately after eating.

Oh no, what’s going on?

I think I might have tenesmus, because I keep feeling the urge to go but nothing happens.

That sounds really frustrating! You should definitely see a doctor.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Tenesmus is derived from the Greek word "tenesmos" (meaning straining or a feeling of incomplete evacuation). The term is used in medical contexts to describe the sensation of needing to pass stools, often without success, indicating a distressing urge to defecate.

Memory Tip

Imagine the feeling of straining to go to the bathroom but not being able to — that's what tenesmus describes.

Visually Confused Words