Educational Content: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.
Definition of Distention
Medically reviewed by Min Clinic Staff | Updated: January 2026
Distention: The state of being distended, enlarged, swollen from internal pressure.
For example, on inhalation there is distention of the lungs due to the increased air pressure within the lungs.
The word "distention" comes from a Latin root "tendere," to extend. The word "tendon" comes from the same root.