Main Entry: cath·e·ter

Pronunciation: \ˈka-thə-tər, ˈkath-tər\

Function: noun

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

Date: 1601

: 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