Word Origin and History for tertiary Expand. adj. 1650s, of the third order, rank, degree, etc., from Latin tertiarius of or pertaining to a third, from tertius third, a third, from root of tres three (see three).
Water and Fluid retention in legs, also known as edema, is a medical condition caused by abnormal accumulation of water or fluids in the bodyâs tissues. Though excess water can be accumulated anywhere in the body, the most common areas are the ankles and legs.
Blockage of the kidneys prevents excess fluid from being excreted from the body. This can cause areas of the body, such as the feet, ankles or hands, to expand and swell with excess fluid. The Merck Manual of Medical Information notes that increased fluid retention can cause weight gain to occur in some people.