1. the wave-like muscle contractions that move food through the digestive tract
Usage: medical/biological

Examples

• Peristalsis pushes food from the esophagus into the stomach.
• The smooth muscles of the intestines create peristalsis to move digested food along.
• Without proper peristalsis, food would not move through the digestive system.
• Doctors can observe peristalsis using special imaging techniques.
• Peristalsis occurs automatically without conscious control.
• The rhythmic contractions of peristalsis help break down food particles.