lymphedema

noun

lymph·​ede·​ma ˌlim(p)-fi-ˈdē-mə How to pronounce lymphedema (audio)
: edema due to faulty lymphatic drainage

Examples of lymphedema in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
My lymphedema manifested itself in a unique way in that the fluid wasn't just stuck in the arm. — Wendy Grossman Kantor, People.com, 1 Apr. 2025 Her health complications involved lymphedema and fluid buildup in her lungs. — Shania Russell, Entertainment Weekly, 28 Jan. 2026 Graves’ is an autoimmune disorder affecting the thyroid, while lymphedema causes swelling in the feet and legs. — Jami Ganz, New York Daily News, 21 Feb. 2024 The practice was first used clinically in the 1930s, and is most commonly used to treat lymphedema. — Hannah Yasharoff, USA Today, 27 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for lymphedema

Word History

Etymology

New Latin

First Known Use

1889, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of lymphedema was in 1889

Rhymes for lymphedema

See All Rhymes for lymphedema

Browse Nearby Words

lymph cell
lymphedema
lymph gland
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Lymphedema.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lymphedema. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Medical Definition

lymphedema

noun
lymph·​ede·​ma
variants or chiefly British lymphoedema
ˌlim(p)-fi-ˈdē-mə How to pronounce lymphedema (audio)
: edema due to faulty lymphatic drainage
lymphedematous adjective
or chiefly British lymphoedematous
ˌlim(p)-fi-ˈdem-ət-əs How to pronounce lymphedema (audio)

More from Merriam-Webster on lymphedema

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about lymphedema

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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