Distension/dɪˈstenʃn/ Definition 1 of 1Pro Tip 1/3Medical Context Primarily used in medical situations to describe physical expansion related to health issues. The patient was diagnosed with gastric distension. Pro Tip 2/3Negative Connotation Usually indicates a problem or abnormality when referring to body parts. Her limb distension was causing severe discomfort. Pro Tip 3/3Technical Term Considered a technical term, often explained further in layman's terms. The ultrasound showed distension of the bladder.