A chronic lung disease characterized by damage to the alveoli (air sacs) in the lungs, causing them to lose their elasticity and become enlarged. This results in trapped air, reduced gas exchange, and progressive breathing difficulties.
From Greek 'emphysema' meaning 'inflation' or 'to blow into,' derived from 'en' (in) and 'physa' (bellows). The term describes the characteristic over-inflation of lung tissue seen in this condition.
Try Another Word