catheter

noun

cath·​e·​ter ˈka-thə-tər 

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

This allows for the safer use of blood-contacting devices, such as catheters, stents, blood-oxygenation machines and dialysis machines, the release stated. —Angelica Stabile, Fox News, 30 Nov. 2024

One of the bullets brushed his spine and another pierced his bladder, leaving him with a permanent catheter. —Keri Blakinger, Los Angeles Times, 4 Nov. 2024

The procedure involves inserting a catheter from the groin to the heart to look for the source of the problem. —Carisa Brewster, Verywell Health, 24 Oct. 2024

Cupp’s doctor suggested more testing, including the insertion of a catheter to examine whether his arteries were blocked. —T. Christian Miller, ProPublica, 23 Oct. 2024

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

Phrases Containing catheter

• balloon catheter
• Foley catheter

Medical Definition

catheter

noun

cath·​e·​ter ˈkath-ət-ər, ˈkath-tər 

: 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)