Pronunciation: [vˈɒmɪtəs] (IPA) 
Vomitus is a medical term used to describe the act of vomiting. It is spelled with the letter "u" and not "o" because the emphasis on the word falls on the second syllable, which is pronounced as "my-tus" (IPA: /maɪtəs/). The first syllable is pronounced as "voh" (IPA: /voʊ/), and the stress falls on the second syllable "mih", which means it is an antepenultimate stress word. The phonetic transcription of vomitus is /voʊˈmaɪtəs/.
Vomitus is a noun that refers to the partially digested food, stomach fluids, and other substances that are forcefully expelled from the stomach and through the mouth due to the act of vomiting. It is also commonly referred to as vomit or puke.
The process of vomiting occurs as a reflex response triggered by the body in order to rid itself of harmful or irritating substances. When this reflex is activated, the muscles in the stomach forcefully contract, pushing the gastric contents up the esophagus and out through the mouth. This expulsion is accompanied by a characteristic feeling of nausea and often a retching sensation.
Vomitus can vary in appearance and consistency depending on the contents present in the stomach at the time of expulsion. It may include partially digested food, stomach acid, bile, mucus, and sometimes even blood if there is an underlying medical condition or injury. The odor of vomitus can also vary, typically having a sour or foul smell.
The examination of vomitus can sometimes be useful in diagnosing certain gastrointestinal disorders, as it may contain clues regarding the underlying cause. Healthcare professionals often pay attention to the color, consistency, and odor of vomitus during their clinical evaluations. Additionally, the presence of any unusual or concerning features in the vomitus, such as blood or undigested food, may prompt further investigations or medical interventions.
1. Vomiting. 2. Vomited matter.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "vomitus" has its etymology in Latin. It is derived from the Latin verb "vomere", meaning "to vomit". The -us ending in "vomitus" indicates that it is a noun in the singular masculine form.
