1. The obstruction of a blood vessel by a blood clot, air bubble, or other foreign matter carried in the bloodstream.
Usage: medical term; commonly used in healthcare contexts
2. In the calendar, the insertion of days or months to harmonize the lunar year with the solar year.
Usage: technical; historical/astronomical context

Examples

• The patient suffered a pulmonary embolism after surgery.
• A stroke can occur when an embolism blocks blood flow to the brain.
• Doctors use anticoagulants to prevent embolism in high-risk patients.
• The ancient calendar required embolism to keep months aligned with seasons.
• Early detection of embolism is critical for patient survival.