appendicitis

noun

ap·​pen·​di·​ci·​tis ə-ˌpen-də-ˈsī-təs 

: inflammation of the vermiform appendix

Examples of appendicitis in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Duviel was supposed to be in the van with his father but because of appendicitis was not, inadvertently saving his life. — David Goodhue, Miami Herald, 1 Oct. 2026

In Monday’s newsletter, Amanda wrote about a study on rising mortality rates for treatable surgical conditions like appendicitis. — Theresa Gaffney, STAT, 30 Sep. 2026

The singer recorded her appearance on the show earlier this month, only hours before being hospitalized for appendicitis. — Emily Zemler, Rolling Stone, 27 Aug. 2026

Doctors struggled to pinpoint a diagnosis, suggesting potential causes, including appendicitis and a bacterial infection. — Adam England, PEOPLE, 14 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

New Latin appendic-, appendix "vermiform appendix" + -itis

First Known Use

1886, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

appendicitis

noun

ap·​pen·​di·​ci·​tis ə-ˌpen-də-ˈsīt-əs 

: inflammation of the appendix

Medical Definition

appendicitis

noun

ap·​pen·​di·​ci·​tis ə-ˌpen-də-ˈsīt-əs 

: inflammation of the vermiform appendix

called also epityphlitis