em·phy·se·ma ( m f -s  m , -z-)n. 1. A pathological condition of the lungs marked by an abnormal increase in the size of the air spaces, resulting in labored breathing and an increased susceptibility to infection. It can be caused by irreversible expansion of the alveoli or by the destruction of alveolar walls. 2. An abnormal distention of body tissues caused by retention of air. [Greek emph  sma, inflation, from emphs n, to blow in : en-, in; see en-2 + phsn, to blow (from phsa, bellows, bladder).]em phy·sema·tous (-sm-ts, -sm-, -zm-, -zm-) adj.em phy·semic adj. & n. |
ThesaurusLegend: Synonyms Related Words Antonyms
| Adj. | 1. | emphysematous - relating to or resembling or being emphysema |
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