Word
menstruation
Phoneticsmen·stru·a·tion, stress on the third syllable
US/ˌmɛnstɹuˈeɪʃən/
UK/mˌɛnstɹuːˈeɪʃən/
Definitions
01the biological process
B2 · Upper Intermediate Uncountable noun Medicine Technical
n. the monthly process where a woman's body releases blood and cells from the uterus.
n. the periodic discharge of blood and uterine lining in humans and other primates, occurring as part of the reproductive cycle.
“Menstruation usually begins during puberty for most young women.”
“The hormonal shifts that trigger menstruation can also affect a person's mood and energy levels throughout the month.”
Usage
Often used in medical or formal contexts; 'period' is the standard everyday term.
Synonyms
02a specific instance
B2 · Upper Intermediate Uncountable noun Medicine Technical
n. the specific time or days during the month when this process happens.
n. a specific occurrence or instance of the menstrual flow.
“She tracked the start of her menstruation on a calendar every month.”
“Irregular menstruation can sometimes be a sign of underlying health issues that require a consultation with a specialist.”
Usage
Can be used as a countable noun when referring to specific occurrences.
Synonyms
Real-World Examples
“These included changes in menstruation such as bleeding between periods, heavy bleeding, and irregular menstrual cycles.” “When you lose blood through menstruation, you also lose iron, which can affect your sleep, Dr Arif highlighted.” Etymology
From menstruum + -ation, modelled after Late Latin menstruatio. The word is a cognate with French menstruation, Spanish menstruación, which displaced Old English mōnaþblōd (literally “monthblood”).
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
NOUN
ADJECTIVE
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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