per·i·stal·sis (p r  -stôl ss, -st l-)n. pl. per·i·stal·ses (-s  z) The wavelike muscular contractions of the alimentary canal or other tubular structures by which contents are forced onward toward the opening. [New Latin, from Greek peristaltikos, peristaltic, from peristellein, to wrap around : peri-, peri- + stellein, to place; see stel- in Indo-European roots.] per i·staltic (-stôltk, -stl-) adj.per i·stalti·cal·ly adv. |
Want to thank TFD for its existence? Tell a friend about us, add a link to this page, add the site to iGoogle, or visit the webmaster's page for free fun content.
| ?Page tools | ||
|---|---|---|
|