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

Resuscitation efforts were continued, and an intraosseous catheter was placed. —Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 5 Mar. 2025

Garcia, who has worked at Palmetto for nine years, said the hospital has seen a variety of supply shortages under Steward’s ownership, including towels and linens, needles, catheters and medication. —Michelle Marchante, Miami Herald, 4 Mar. 2025

Strict sanitary practices should be maintained when inserting or removing standard catheters. —Matthew Wosnitzer, Verywell Health, 28 Feb. 2025

The doctor slides a large catheter into an incision in your abdominal cavity. —Outside Online, 19 Feb. 2025

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)