n. The rhythmic, wave-like contraction of the digestive tract that forces food through it.
the GNU version of the Collaborative International Dictionary of English
n. Peristaltic contraction or action.
The Century Dictionary and Cyclopedia
n. The peculiar involuntary muscular movements of various hollow organs of the body, especially of the alimentary canal, whereby their contents are propelled onward.
WordNet 3.0 Copyright 2006 by Princeton University. All rights reserved.
n. the process of wavelike muscle contractions of the alimentary tract that moves food along
Word Usage
"The oral administration of activated charcoal may effectively prevent systemic absorption of the combination for several hours after ingestion due to delayed gastric emptying and decreased peristalsis from the opiate and glutethimide combination."