Congesting: meaning, definitions and examples

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congesting

 

[ kΙ™nˈdΚ’Ι›stΙ™Ε‹ ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

medical term

Congesting refers to the process of fluid accumulation in bodily tissues or organs, often leading to swelling and impaired function. It can occur in various conditions, such as heart failure or respiratory issues, where blood flow or fluid drainage is obstructed, causing congestion. This can lead to symptoms like difficulty breathing or pain in the affected area. The term may also apply more generally to situations where something is blocked or overcrowded, such as traffic congestion.

Synonyms

blockage, clogging, obstruction.

Examples of usage

  • The doctor noted that the patient's lungs were congesting, indicating a possible infection.
  • Traffic is congesting on the main highway during rush hour.
  • The cold weather is causing sinus congestion.

Etymology

The word 'congesting' comes from the Latin verb 'congerere', meaning to bring together or to accumulate. This root evolved to describe the buildup of fluids or other materials, especially in a medical context where it often refers to the accumulation of blood or other fluids in tissues. Over time, the term drifted into wider usage, including references to traffic and overcrowded spaces. Its clinical implications in medicine have made it a common term in healthcare discussions, particularly in relation to conditions that impact normal fluid circulation and flow within the body or in structures such as airways.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #40,773, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.