Definition

A surgical operation that involves the removal of all or part of the clitoris, often referred to as female circumcision.

Example

Clitorectomy is a procedure that is performed in some cultures as a form of female circumcision.

Conversation

I recently read an article about clitorectomy and it shocked me.

Yeah, it's such a controversial topic and so many people are unaware of it.

I had no idea it was still happening in some parts of the world.

I know, it's really upsetting, and we need to raise awareness.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Clitorectomy is formed from "clitoris" (from Greek "kleitoris", meaning the small organ in the female reproductive system) and "-ectomy" (from Greek "ektomē", meaning excision or surgical removal). The word refers to the surgical removal of the clitoris.

Memory Tip

Think of the Greek word for the small organ, 'kleitoris', and remember that 'clitorectomy' means the surgical removal of that organ.

Visually Confused Words