n. [ L. arctus shut in, narrow, p. p. of arcere to shut in: cf. F. arctation. ] (Med.) Constriction or contraction of some natural passage, as in constipation from inflammation. [ 1913 Webster ]
n. [ L. coarctatio. ] 1. Confinement to a narrow space. [ Obs. ] Bacon. [ 1913 Webster ]
2. Pressure; that which presses. [ Obs. ] Ray. [ 1913 Webster ]
3. (Med.) A stricture or narrowing, as of a canal, cavity, or orifice. [ 1913 Webster ]