Definition

A swelling of the abdomen due to the buildup of gas or air in the intestines or abdominal cavity.

Example

The doctor diagnosed her with tympanites after she complained of severe abdominal pain and bloating.

Conversation

I’ve been feeling really bloated lately, and I think it might be tympanites.

Oh no, that sounds uncomfortable! Have you seen a doctor about it?

Not yet, but I read that it can happen from too much gas in the intestines.

Yeah, that makes sense. You should definitely get it checked out if it continues.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Tympanites is derived from "tympanum" (from Greek "tympanon", meaning drum) and the suffix "-ites" (used in medical terminology to denote a condition). The term refers to a condition characterized by the presence of gas in the abdominal cavity, likened to the sound of a drum when the abdomen is tapped.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'drum' ('tympanum') that resonates with sound, helping you remember that 'tympanites' refers to a condition where gas causes a similar effect in the abdomen.

Visually Confused Words