‖Te‐nes″mus (?), n. [NL., fr. Gr. �, fr. � to stretch: cf. L. tenesmos.] (Med.) An urgent and distressing sensation, as if a discharge from the intestines must take place, although none can be effected; — always referred to the lower extremity of the rectum.
Vesical tenesmus, a similar sensation as to the evacuation of urine, referred to the region of the bladder.