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.
© Webster 1913.