catheter

noun

cath·​e·​ter ˈka-thə-tər How to pronounce catheter (audio)
ˈkath-tər
: a tubular medical device for insertion into canals, vessels, passageways, or body cavities usually to permit injection or withdrawal of fluids or to keep a passage open compare balloon catheter

Examples of catheter in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web If the rhythm persists, treatment with medication or catheter ablation may be provided. Angela Ryan Lee, Verywell Health, 25 Sep. 2024 Even though Cardi's nails had to be accessorized with an IV catheter on the back of her hand and her gold bracelets were joined by a hospital wristband, nothing can take away from the adorable expression of joy that is this simple yet significant manicure. Marci Robin, Allure, 12 Sep. 2024 Plasmapheresis involves inserting a needle or catheter into a vein in your arm or some other location to draw blood. Suchandrima Bhowmik, Health, 8 Aug. 2024 On two other mornings, a nurse found them in bed with a bursting catheter bag that sent urine back into their body or onto their socks. Cleo Krejci, Journal Sentinel, 2 Aug. 2024 See all Example Sentences for catheter 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'catheter.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Late Latin, from Greek kathetēr, from kathienai to send down, from kata- cata- + hienai to send — more at jet

First Known Use

1601, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of catheter was in 1601

Dictionary Entries Near catheter

Cite this Entry

“Catheter.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/catheter. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.

Medical Definition

catheter

noun
cath·​e·​ter ˈkath-ət-ər, ˈkath-tər How to pronounce catheter (audio)
: a tubular medical device for insertion into canals, vessels, passageways, or body cavities for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes (as to permit injection or withdrawal of fluids or to keep a passage open)

More from Merriam-Webster on catheter

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