hemorrhoid

noun

hem·​or·​rhoid ˈhem-ˌrȯid How to pronounce hemorrhoid (audio)
ˈhe-mə-
: an abnormal mass of dilated and engorged blood vessels in swollen tissue that occurs internally in the anal canal or externally around the anus, that may be marked by bleeding, pain, or itching, and that when occurring internally often protrude through the outer sphincter of the anus and when occurring externally may lead to thrombosis
usually used in plural

called also piles

Examples of hemorrhoid in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Those with celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease, resections, hemorrhoids, or bariatric surgery are more at risk of iron loss, and may have trouble absorbing iron. Casey Seiden, Parents, 26 Feb. 2024 Those with hemorrhoids and physical disabilities or who recently gave birth might benefit from using a bidet more than others. Maggie O'Neill, Health, 21 Nov. 2023 When To Contact a Healthcare Provider The signs and symptoms of colorectal cancer are similar to those of other conditions like infection, hemorrhoids, and irritable bowel syndrome. Taylyn Washington-Harmon, Health, 16 Dec. 2023 There are several possible benefits of a bidet, such as helping those with physical disabilities and treating and preventing hemorrhoids. Maggie O'Neill, Health, 21 Nov. 2023 This routine is something that Dr. Borkar suggests to patients who have hemorrhoids. Jessica Migala, Health, 30 Aug. 2023 In fact, dietary fiber in general — found in foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes — may help keep you regular, lower your risk of developing hemorrhoids, and provide other good-for-your-gut and digestion features. Perri O. Blumberg, Men's Health, 30 Aug. 2023 Like hemorrhoids, symptoms of an anal fissure include itching, bleeding, and pain, said Dr. Borkar. Jessica Migala, Health, 30 Aug. 2023 If hopping in the shower won't work, people with hemorrhoids still have options, Dr. Dweck said. Jessica Migala, Health, 30 Aug. 2023

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'hemorrhoid.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Middle English emeroides, plural, from Anglo-French emorroides, from Latin haemorrhoidae, from Greek haimorrhoides, from haimorrhoos flowing with blood, from haimo- hem- + rhein to flow — more at stream

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of hemorrhoid was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near hemorrhoid

Cite this Entry

“Hemorrhoid.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hemorrhoid. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

hemorrhoid

noun
hem·​or·​rhoid ˈhem-(ə-)ˌrȯid How to pronounce hemorrhoid (audio)
1
: a swollen mass of veins located at or just within the anus
2
plural : the condition of a person who has hemorrhoids

called also piles

Medical Definition

hemorrhoid

noun
hem·​or·​rhoid
variants or chiefly British haemorrhoid
: an abnormal mass of dilated and engorged blood vessels in swollen tissue that occurs internally in the anal canal or externally around the anus, that may be marked by bleeding, pain, or itching, and that when occurring internally often protrude through the external anal sphincter and when occurring externally may lead to thrombosis
usually used in plural

called also piles

More from Merriam-Webster on hemorrhoid

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