# catheter

/ˈkæθətɝ/ (US) · /kˈæθɛtɐ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/catheter
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

a thin, flexible tube that a doctor puts into your body to add or remove fluids. It is most often used to help people empty their bladder when they cannot go to the bathroom normally.

For teachers: a flexible tube inserted into a body cavity, duct, or vessel to allow the drainage or injection of fluids. Most commonly refers to a urinary catheter used to drain the bladder.

## Examples

- The nurse inserted a catheter to help the patient after surgery.
- After the operation, the patient required a catheter for several days until they were mobile enough to use the restroom.
- Medical professionals must maintain a sterile environment during the insertion of a catheter to prevent the introduction of bacteria into the urinary tract, which could lead to a secondary infection.

## Usage notes

- Commonly used with the verbs 'insert', 'remove', or 'change'.

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