Definitions

1. noun

a protrusion or bulge in a part of the body, especially in the abdominal wall, caused by a weakening of the muscles or other tissues, allowing an internal organ or part to push through.

“The doctor diagnosed him with a hernia that required immediate surgery.”

2. noun

a weakness in a structure, such as a wall or a beam, that allows part of it to bulge out.

“The engineer inspected the bridge to check for any hernias in the steel beams.”