catheter

noun

cath·​e·​ter ˈka-thə-tər 

ˈkath-tər

: 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

Examples of catheter in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The massive warehouse was one of more than 50 distribution centers across the country for Medline, which according to its online catalog sells bandages, wheelchairs, catheters, hospital beds and many other medical supplies. —ABC News, 12 June 2026

Instead of inserting multiple instruments through surgical openings or catheters, future physicians may be able to deploy a single miniature robotic platform capable of diagnosis, treatment, sampling, and therapy in one procedure. —New Atlas, 8 June 2026

Venova’s technology creates that connection through a catheter rather than open surgery, with the goal of better outcomes and fewer follow-up procedures. —Shimite Obialo, Forbes.com, 1 June 2026

These treatments may include the placement of stents in blood vessels or the removal of plaque with a bladed catheter, also known as an atherectomy. —Annie Waldman, ProPublica, 29 May 2026

Word History

Etymology

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

First Known Use

1588, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing catheter

• balloon catheter
• Foley catheter

Medical Definition

catheter

noun

cath·​e·​ter ˈkath-ət-ər, ˈkath-tər 

: a tubular medical device for insertion into canals, vessels, passageways, or body cavities for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes (as to permit injection or withdrawal of fluids or to keep a passage open)