Pap smear

noun

ˈpap- How to pronounce Pap smear (audio)
: a method for the early detection of cancer especially of the uterine cervix that involves the staining of exfoliated cells using a special technique which differentiates diseased tissue

called also Papanicolaou smear, Papanicolaou test, Pap test

Examples of Pap smear in a Sentence

She has a Pap smear done every year.
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.
During a Pap smear, cells are gently scraped from the cervix and examined under a microscope to check for signs of dysplasia, which can result from HPV infection. — Kelly Burch Published, Verywell Health, 30 Jan. 2025 Your doctor may also perform a pelvic exam, Pap smear, endometrial biopsy and transvaginal ultrasound to determine the cause of the bleeding and to exclude more concerning conditions. — Lauryn Higgins, Flow Space, 24 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

George N. Papanicolaou †1962 American medical scientist

First Known Use

1952, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of Pap smear was in 1952

Rhymes for Pap smear

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Cite this Entry

“Pap smear.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Pap%20smear. Accessed 24 Mar. 2025.

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Kids Definition

Pap smear

noun
ˈpap- How to pronounce Pap smear (audio)
: a test for the early detection of cancer especially of the cervix of the uterus using cells that are shed or scraped off and stained in a special way

called also Pap test

Medical Definition

Pap smear

noun
ˈpap- How to pronounce Pap smear (audio)
: a method or a test based on it for the early detection of cancer especially of the uterine cervix that involves staining exfoliated cells by a special technique which differentiates diseased tissue

called also Papanicolaou smear, Papanicolaou test, Pap test

More from Merriam-Webster on Pap smear

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about Pap smear

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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