Definition of "ileus" in English

noun

1. (medicine, modern usage) Disruption of the normal propulsive ability of the gastrointestinal tract, due to failure of peristalsis.

2. (medicine, broad definition, now rare) Disruption of the normal propulsive ability of the gastrointestinal tract from any cause.

   • 1796, Erasmus Darwin, Zoonomia, Volume II: Classes of Diseases, IV: Diseases of Association, Ordo III: Retrograde Associate Motions, Genus II: Catenated with sensitive motions, The perpetual vomiting in ileus is caused in like manner by the defective excitement of the sensorial power of association by the bowel, which is torpid during the intervals of pain; and the stomach sympathizes with it.