congestion

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   a state in which a road, place, or system is overcrowded or blocked, preventing free movement

   Extra trains were scheduled to relieve congestion around the city.

2. 2
   noun

   an excessive accumulation of blood, mucus, or other fluid in part of the body

   Steam helped ease the congestion in her nose and chest.

From late Middle English congestion, through French from Latin congestio, 'a heap or accumulation,' based on congerere, 'to bring together or pile up.' The medical and traffic senses both preserve the idea of material accumulating until flow is obstructed.

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