Premenstrual Syndrome

WordReference Random House Learner's Dictionary of American English © 2025

preˈmen•stru•al ˈsyn•drome, n. [uncountable]

1. a complex of physical and emotional changes, as irritability, depression, bloating, and headaches, experienced in the days before the onset of menstrual flow.[Abbr.:] PMS

WordReference Random House Unabridged Dictionary of American English © 2025

premen′strual syn′drome, [Pathol.]

Pathology a complex of physical and emotional changes, including depression, irritability, appetite changes, bloating and water retention, breast soreness, and changes in muscular coordination, one or more of which may be experienced in the several days before the onset of menstrual flow. Abbr.: PMS Also called premen′strual ten′sion. 

• pre- + menstrual 1980–85

Collins Concise English Dictionary © HarperCollins Publishers::

premenstrual syndrome, premenstrual tension noun

1. a group of symptoms, including nervous tension and fluid retention, any of which may be experienced as a result of hormonal changes in the days before a menstrual period starts
   Abbreviation: PMS, PMT