catheter

cath·e·ter

noun \ˈka-thə-tər, ˈkath-tər\

Definition of CATHETER

: 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

Origin of CATHETER

Late Latin, from Greek kathetēr, from kathienai to send down, from kata- cata- + hienai to send — more at jet

First Known Use: 1601

Other Medicine Terms

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