absorptiometry

noun

ab·​sorp·​ti·​om·​e·​try əb-ˌsȯrp-shē-ˈä-mə-trē 

-ˌzȯrp-

: measurement of the amount of radiation absorbed (as by living tissue) especially to determine density compare dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry

Examples of absorptiometry in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

In each study, bone density was measured at the spine and the hip using Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, or DEXA scan. —Christina Jewett, New York Times, 14 Nov. 2022

Get a bone density test Several technologies measure bone density, but dual energy X-ray absorptiometry, known as DEXA, is the most common. —Sheryl Jean, Dallas News, 2 Mar. 2020

Victoria’s results: 23.4% Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry is typically used to measure bone density, but can be used to examine muscle and fat, too. —Sarah Klein, Health.com, 20 July 2017

Word History

Etymology

absorptio(n) + -metry (after German Absorptiometrie)

First Known Use

1950, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing absorptiometry

• dual energy X-ray absorptiometry

Medical Definition

absorptiometry

noun

ab·​sorp·​ti·​om·​e·​try -ˈäm-ə-trē 

plural absorptiometries

: the use of an absorptiometer to determine the amount of radiation absorbed (as by living tissue) see dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry, dual photon absorptiometry, single photon absorptiometry