distention
- n the state of being stretched beyond normal dimensions
- n the act of expanding by pressure from within
- Main reason: he enjoyed the distention of his stomach by gas (carbon dioxide generated by the action of digestive hydrochloric acid on the bicarbonate) and the resultant belching.
- Victims of celiaca cannot utilize fats and carbohydrates; most sugars ferment in their intestines, cause enormous distention of the abdomen.
- Sometimes women have a spasmodic abdominal distention.