abdominal
C1Pronunciation
UK
- /æbdˈɒmɪnəl/
US
- /æbˈdɑmənəl/
- /əbˈdɑmənəl/
Description
- relating to the abdomen
- belly region
- abdominal (core) muscles
If a doctor asks about "abdominal pain," they're talking about discomfort in your belly—that area between your ribs and hips. The word "abdominal" simply means relating to the abdomen, which is the part of your body that contains organs like your stomach, intestines, liver, and kidneys. You might hear it used when discussing medical conditions, injuries, or even just describing someone's physique. A strong core often involves strengthening your abdominal muscles. Think of an "abdominal exercise" as one that works those belly muscles—like a sit-up or a plank.
The word "abdominal" refers to anything pertaining to the abdomen—that crucial part of your body nestled between your chest and pelvis. It's more than just where you might feel butterflies before a big event! The abdomen houses many vital organs, including your stomach, intestines, liver, pancreas, spleen, and kidneys.
You'll most often encounter "abdominal" in medical contexts. A doctor might ask about or evaluate "abdominal pain" (pain in the belly), perform an "abdominal exam" (feeling the abdomen to check for problems), or discuss an "abdominal injury" (like a bruise or internal damage). It's also used to describe muscles: "abdominal muscles" are the ones you work when doing crunches.
However, "abdominal" isn't always about health. You might hear it in descriptions of anatomy or even bodybuilding—referring to the abdominal area. For example, a fitness magazine might highlight an athlete with well-defined abdominal muscles (often called "abs").
So, while you may not use "abdominal" in everyday conversation very often, understanding its meaning is important when discussing health, anatomy, or physical fitness—anything relating to that central part of your body!
Examples
- 1
Medical symptom
He went to the doctor because of severe abdominal pain.
- 2
Fitness
The trainer showed us exercises to strengthen the abdominal muscles.
- 3
Surgery
She had abdominal surgery last year and recovered quickly.
- 4
Medical warning
If the abdominal swelling gets worse, call the clinic right away.
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- abdominalnounadjective
Forms
- abdominalspluralnounadjective