noun
embolism
EHM-buh-lih-zuhm
Embolism (noun) means a blockage in a blood vessel caused by a clot, air bubble, or other matter carried through the bloodstream. Example: “A pulmonary embolism can be life-threatening if not treated quickly.”
noun
1
A blockage in a blood vessel caused by a clot, air bubble, or other matter carried through the bloodstream.
"A pulmonary embolism can be life-threatening if not treated quickly."
"Long flights slightly raise the risk of an embolism in the legs."
How to use embolism
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA dangerous blockage in a blood vessel caused by a clot or bubble travelling through the blood.
Common pairings
pulmonary embolism
risk of embolism
suffer an embolism
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Word forms
- Plural
- embolisms
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A pulmonary _____ can be life-threatening if not treated quickly.
Etymology
Coined in the medical sense in 1848 by physician Rudolf Virchow, from Greek embolismos, "something inserted" — the same root behind the calendar term for inserted days.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for embolism
See all rhymes for embolism →Frequently asked questions
What does “embolism” mean?
The word “embolism” means a blockage in a blood vessel caused by a clot, air bubble, or other matter carried through the bloodstream. In plain terms, a dangerous blockage in a blood vessel caused by a clot or bubble travelling through the blood.
How do you pronounce “embolism”?
“Embolism” is pronounced EHM-buh-lih-zuhm ([ˈɛmbɫ̩ɪzm̩] in IPA).
How do you use “embolism” in a sentence?
Here is “embolism” used in a sentence: “A pulmonary embolism can be life-threatening if not treated quickly.”
What part of speech is “embolism”?
“Embolism” is a noun.
Where does the word “embolism” come from?
The word “embolism” dates back to around 1848 and comes from Greek. Coined in the medical sense in 1848 by physician Rudolf Virchow, from Greek embolismos, "something inserted" — the same root behind the calendar term for inserted days.
