patency

noun

pa·​ten·​cy ˈpa-tᵊn(t)-sē How to pronounce patency (audio) ˈpā- How to pronounce patency (audio)
: the quality or state of being patent

Examples of patency in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Yajaira Sierra-Sastre, crew scientist, administers a nasal patency test to me earlier this year during our two-week practice mission at the Mars Desert Research Station in Utah. Kate Greene, Discover Magazine, 3 May 2013 These last two tests are looking at the openness of the nose, also known as nasal patency. Kate Greene, Discover Magazine, 3 May 2013

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'patency.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1656, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of patency was in 1656

Dictionary Entries Near patency

Cite this Entry

“Patency.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/patency. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

Medical Definition

patency

noun
pa·​ten·​cy ˈpat-ᵊn-sē How to pronounce patency (audio) ˈpāt- How to pronounce patency (audio)
plural patencies
: the quality or state of being open or unobstructed
evaluating arterial patency
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