How to Pronounce Meconium Ileus

Say it like this: meh-KOH-nee-um IL-ee-us. The stress falls on the second syllable of the first word (KOH) and the first syllable of the second word (IL). Think of it as "meh-KOH-nee-um" (pause) "IL-ee-us."

Meconium is a medical term for a newborn baby's first stool or bowel movement. The word comes from Greek and Latin roots meaning something dark or poppy-like, because meconium is typically dark greenish-black in color.

Ileus (pronounced IL-ee-us) is a medical term for a blockage or obstruction in the small intestine. The word comes from Greek and refers to the twisting or blockage of the bowel.

Meconium breaks into four syllables: me-CO-ni-um. Ileus breaks into three syllables: il-e-us. When you say them together, it's: meh-KOH-nee-um IL-ee-us (seven syllables total).

Many people stress the first syllable and say "MEH-konium" instead of "meh-KOH-neum." Remember: the stress belongs on the second syllable, so it sounds like "meh-KOH-nee-um."

Meconium ileus means a blockage in a newborn's small intestine caused by abnormally thick or sticky first stool. In simpler terms, it's when a baby's intestines get plugged up by their first bowel movement.

The abbreviation is MI, pronounced as "em-eye" (just say each letter separately). You might see this shortened form in medical records or discussions among healthcare professionals.

Words like 'paralytic ileus' (a different kind of intestinal blockage) and 'ileal' (relating to part of the small intestine) share the root 'ileus' or 'ileums.' These all relate to the small intestine or bowel function.

You might hear a doctor say: "The ultrasound showed signs of meconium ileus in the fetus." Or in a conversation: "Meconium ileus is a condition where a newborn's first stool blocks the intestines."