Word
circumcision
Phoneticscir·cum·ci·sion
US/ˌsɝkəmˈsɪʒən/
UK/sˈɜːkəmsˌɪʒən/
Definition
n. the removal of parts of the female sex organs, often called female circumcision.
n. the surgical removal or cutting of parts of the female external genitalia, often referred to as female genital mutilation (FGM).
Examples
“The doctor discussed the benefits and risks of circumcision with the parents.”
“In many Jewish and Muslim communities, circumcision is a significant religious rite performed shortly after birth.”
“While some medical associations highlight the potential health benefits of neonatal circumcision, others argue that the procedure should be deferred until the individual can provide informed consent.”
Examples
simple
“The doctor discussed the benefits and risks of circumcision with the parents.”
contextual
“In many Jewish and Muslim communities, circumcision is a significant religious rite performed shortly after birth.”
complex
“While some medical associations highlight the potential health benefits of neonatal circumcision, others argue that the procedure should be deferred until the individual can provide informed consent.”
Teaching tip
In modern human rights and medical contexts, 'female genital mutilation' or 'FGM' is the preferred and more precise term.
Real-World Examples
“Today, performances can be staged at birthdays, weddings, circumcisions, and even Chinese religious festivals, according to researcher Patricia Hardwick.” Etymology
From Latin circumcīsiō(n), from circumcīdō (“cut around”), from circum (“about, around; through”) + caedō (“cut, hew”).
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Synonyms
Scan code
englishreference.com/q/circumcision