catheter

noun

cath·​e·​ter ˈka-thə-tər How to pronounce catheter (audio)
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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Shockwave makes a catheter that emits localized sonic pressure waves to crack hardened plaque in arteries. — George Avalos, Mercury News, 15 May 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 Stewart added the hospital has improved its score related to catheter use following surgeries, which can increase the risk of urinary tract infections. — Daniel I. Dorfman, Chicago Tribune, 11 May 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 See All Example Sentences for catheter

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of catheter was in 1588

Phrases Containing catheter

Browse Nearby Words

Catherine wheel
catheter
catheterization
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Catheter.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/catheter. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Medical Definition

catheter

noun
cath·​e·​ter ˈkath-ət-ər, ˈkath-tər How to pronounce catheter (audio)
: 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)

More from Merriam-Webster on catheter

Nglish: Translation of catheter for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about catheter

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