menstruation
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
the monthly process where a woman's body releases blood and cells from the uterus.
the periodic discharge of blood and uterine lining in humans and other primates, occurring as part of the reproductive cycle.
Simple“Menstruation usually begins during puberty for most young women.”
In context“The hormonal shifts that trigger menstruation can also affect a person's mood and energy levels throughout the month.”
UsageOften used in medical or formal contexts; 'period' is the standard everyday term.
Synonymsperiodmenses - 02 B2 Upper Intermediate
the specific time or days during the month when this process happens.
a specific occurrence or instance of the menstrual flow.
Simple“She tracked the start of her menstruation on a calendar every month.”
In context“Irregular menstruation can sometimes be a sign of underlying health issues that require a consultation with a specialist.”
UsageCan be used as a countable noun when referring to specific occurrences.
Synonymsmenstrual period
“When you lose blood through menstruation, you also lose iron, which can affect your sleep, Dr Arif highlighted.”
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.