incision

noun

in·​ci·​sion in-ˈsi-zhən How to pronounce incision (audio)
Synonyms of incisionnext
1
a
: cut, gash
specifically : a wound made especially in surgery by incising the body
b
: a marginal notch (as in a leaf)
2
: an act of incising something
a surgeon's skillful incision
3
: the quality or state of being incisive

Synonyms of incision

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Examples of incision in a Sentence

the surgeon made a thin incision with the scalpel
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.
Add rooting hormone around the incision. — Madeline Buiano, Martha Stewart, 15 June 2026 This may support recovery in some cases because of the smaller incisions. — Malana Vantyler, Miami Herald, 24 June 2026 In context, Thomas Tuchel’s side is showing fantastic incision. — Liam Tharme, New York Times, 2 July 2026 The difference was almost immediate, with results that speak for themselves and require no incisions or surgery. — Carolyn Gusoff, CBS News, 30 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for incision

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of incision was in the 15th century

Rhymes for incision

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Browse Nearby Words

incised meander
incision
incisive
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Cite this Entry

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

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Kids Definition

incision

noun
in·​ci·​sion in-ˈsizh-ən How to pronounce incision (audio)
1
: a cut or gash made in something
especially : a cut made into the body during surgery
removed the diseased appendix through a small incision
2
: an act of cutting into something
watched the surgeon's skillful incision

Medical Definition

incision

noun
in·​ci·​sion in-ˈsizh-ən How to pronounce incision (audio)
1
: a cut or wound of body tissue made especially in surgery
2
: an act of incising something
the surgeon's incision of the tissues

More from Merriam-Webster on incision

Nglish: Translation of incision for Spanish Speakers

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