Definition

To insert a thin tube into a person's body to allow for the passage of fluids.

Example

The doctor will catheterize the patient to help drain urine from the bladder.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I heard the nurse had to catheterize the patient today.

Really? That sounds a bit intense.

Yeah, but it's a common procedure in hospitals.

I guess it's important for their treatment.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Catheterize → It is formed from "catheter" (from Greek "katheteres", meaning to send down) and the suffix "-ize" (meaning to make or to perform an action). The word "catheterize" means to perform the action of inserting a catheter into a body passage or cavity.

Memory Tip

Think of 'sending down' ('katheteres') something into the body — that's why catheterize means to insert a catheter.

Visually Confused Words