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volvulus

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /ˈvɒlvjʊləs/

KK: /ˈvɑlvjələs/

noun
Definition

A condition where a part of the intestine twists around itself, leading to a blockage.


Example

The patient was diagnosed with volvulus after experiencing severe abdominal pain.


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you hear about that medical case involving a volvulus?
Sloth B
No, what happened?
Sloth A
It was pretty serious; the doctors had to act fast to untwist the intestine.
Sloth B
Wow, that sounds intense! I hope the patient is okay.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
twist
torsion
kink
Antonyms
straightening
untwist
uncoil
Root Explanation

Volvulus is derived from the Latin "volvĕre" (meaning to roll or turn). The term refers to a twisting or rolling of the intestine, which can lead to obstruction.

Memory Tip

Think of the Latin word for 'to roll' — that's why volvulus describes a condition where the intestine twists or rolls.

Visually Confused Words
convolvulus
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