ˌem(p)fəˈzēmə, -ˈsē- noun
( -s )
Etymology: New Latin, from Greek emphysēma inflation or swelling of a part of the body, from emphysan to inflate, from em- en- (II) + physan to blow — more at fog
: a condition characterized by air-filled expansions like blisters in interstitial or subcutaneous tissues ; specifically : a local or generalized condition of the lung marked by distention, progressive loss of elasticity, and eventual rupture of the alveoli and accompanied by labored breathing, a husky cough, and frequently by impairment of heart action