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

In that case, prosecutors say Morrow performed multiple procedures she was not licensed to perform, including administering medication, inserting a catheter, and performing a manual uterine procedure. — Dan Raby, CBS News, 9 Nov. 2026

Decades later, the doctors who claimed Consuelo was raped and sodomized would realize the injuries were likely because of trauma from medical workers attempting to insert an adult-sized catheter. — Los Angeles Times, 5 Nov. 2026

This is a more invasive procedure which can be given within 24 hours, where medical professionals take a catheter through a groin vessel and bring that catheter all the way up into the brain vessel and pull the clot out. — Sean Krofssik, Hartford Courant, 3 Nov. 2026

The fungus primarily affects patients in hospitals and nursing homes who are already seriously ill, and can spread through medical equipment such as breathing tubes or catheters. — ABC News, 27 Oct. 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)