indwelling

adjective

in·​dwell·​ing ˈin-ˌdwe-liŋ 

1

: being an inner activating or guiding force

2

: left within a bodily organ or passage especially to promote drainage

—used of an implanted tube (such as a catheter)

Word History

First Known Use

1646, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Medical Definition

indwelling

adjective

in·​dwell·​ing ˈin-ˌdwel-iŋ 

: left within a bodily organ or passage to maintain drainage, prevent obstruction, or provide a route for administration of food or drugs

—used of an implanted tube (as a catheter)