adjective
erectile
ih-REK-tyle/ɪˈrektaɪl/
Able to become firm or enlarged as blood fills the tissue.
Erectile tissue becomes firmer as blood flows into its spaces.
Etymology
French érectile carries the underlying image of raising or setting upright. In this anatomical sense, that capacity is realized when blood flow makes tissue firm and raised.
In context
decreased blood flow to the penis uh and therefore increased incidence of erectile dysfunction
More examples
- The penis contains erectile tissue that fills with blood during arousal.
- The clitoris also contains erectile tissue.
- Some medications improve blood flow to erectile tissue.
Forms
erection noun — Firmness and enlargement caused by increased blood flow.