The word "regurgitation" is a common medical term that refers to the process of bringing up undigested food from the stomach. It is spelled as [rɪˌɡəːdʒɪˈteɪʃən] in IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable "ri" is pronounced with a short "i" sound, followed by the stressed syllable "gur" pronounced with a hard "g" sound. The "-gi-" combination is followed by a soft "t" followed by "-ey-sh-un" with an "sh" sound. Remember, its correct spelling is important to help you accurately communicate your thoughts to your readers or listeners.
Regurgitation is a noun that refers to the process of bringing back or expelling previously swallowed food, liquid, or other contents from the stomach or mouth through the esophagus. It generally involves the involuntary act of expelling these substances that have already been consumed or digested.
In medicine, regurgitation often occurs due to a malfunction in certain body mechanisms, such as the weakening or impairment of the valves that normally prevent backflow of food or gastric acid from the stomach into the esophagus. This condition is commonly known as gastroesophageal reflux, or acid reflux, which can result in the uncomfortable sensation of stomach contents rising into the throat or mouth.
Regurgitation can also refer to the act of bringing back or repeating previously learned information, ideas, or experiences without proper comprehension or understanding. In this sense, it is often used metaphorically to describe situations where someone repetitively expresses opinions, statements, or concepts without genuine understanding or thoughtful consideration. It implies a lack of originality, creativity, or critical thinking.
Furthermore, in the context of animals, particularly birds, regurgitation is a natural process by which the food that has been partially digested and stored in the crop is brought back to the mouth or beak to feed the young or share with a mate as a form of bonding or courtship behavior. This form of regurgitation is typically observed in species that engage in parental care or have social behaviors.
1. A backward flow, as of blood through an incompetent valve of the heart. 2. The return of gas or small amounts of food from the stomach.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The act of flowing or pouring back by the same orifice or place of entrance; the act of swallowing again; the natural and easy vomiting of food by infants.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
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The word "regurgitation" originates from the Latin term "regurgitatio", which comes from the verb "regurgitare". The Latin prefix "re-" means "back" or "again", while "gurgitare" means "to flood" or "to overwhelm". Hence, "regurgitatio" can be understood as "a flooding back". The term was adopted into English in the early 17th century and has since been used to describe the action of spitting up or bringing back swallowed food or liquid. In a broader sense, it is also used to describe the act of recalling or repeating information without processing or understanding it fully.