embolus

noun
em·​bo·​lus | \ ˈem-bə-ləs How to pronounce embolus (audio) \
plural emboli\ ˈem-​bə-​ˌlī How to pronounce emboli (audio) \

Definition of embolus

: an abnormal particle (such as an air bubble) circulating in the blood — compare thrombus

Examples of embolus in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

There are different types and causes of pulmonary embolus. San Diego Union-Tribune, "Russell Okung could return for Chargers, but health risk could end career," 25 July 2019 Bengals guard Chris Boling announced his retirement this month due to a pulmonary embolus discovered after last season. San Diego Union-Tribune, "Russell Okung could return for Chargers, but health risk could end career," 25 July 2019 Her symptoms seemed to suggest a possible blood clot but with an IVC filter in place, the likelihood of her having a dangerous pulmonary embolus, or blockage, was quite low. Philly.com, "Medical mystery: An unexpected - and ironic - cause of chest pain," 24 June 2018 Mueller, William — March 2, 1928: Mueller, a motor policeman, died of an embolus while investigating a hit-and-run accident. Indianapolis Star, "Officers killed in the line of duty," 6 July 2014 The possibility of pulmonary emboli derailing an NBA player's career is not far-fetched. Matt Velazquez, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, "Mirza Teletovic disputes report that pulmonary emboli will end his career," 28 Feb. 2018

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'embolus.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

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First Known Use of embolus

1859, in the meaning defined above

History and Etymology for embolus

New Latin, from Greek embolos wedge-shaped object, stopper, from emballein

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More Definitions for embolus

embolus

noun
em·​bo·​lus | \ ˈem-bə-ləs How to pronounce embolus (audio) \
plural emboli\ -​ˌlī How to pronounce emboli (audio) \

Medical Definition of embolus

: an abnormal particle (as an air bubble) circulating in the blood — compare thrombus