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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Go deeper: The FTC under Trump made its first move to challenge private equity in health care last week, Axios Pro reported, suing to block the $627 million acquisition of a maker of specialized coatings for catheters and other medical devices. — Hans Nichols, Axios, 11 Mar. 2025 Instead of only a peripheral IV, a heightened procedure called a central line that includes a catheter is now in place if needed. — Kevin Fixler, Idaho Statesman, 6 Mar. 2025 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 See All Example Sentences for catheter

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

Phrases Containing catheter

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Cite this Entry

“Catheter.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/catheter. Accessed 25 Mar. 2025.

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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

Nglish: Translation of catheter for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about catheter

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