Definition

To take out a tube that has been placed in a body part, usually to help someone breathe or to drain fluids.

Example

The doctor decided to extubate the patient after they showed signs of recovery.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you hear that the doctors plan to extubate her soon?

Yeah, I hope it goes well; it’s a big step in her recovery.

Right? It means she’s getting stronger, which is great news.

Absolutely! I can’t wait to see her back to normal.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Extubate → It is formed from "ex-" (meaning out of) and "tubare" (from Latin, meaning to place in a tube). The word "extubate" means to remove a tube, particularly in a medical context, indicating the action of taking a tube out of the airway.

Memory Tip

Think of 'taking out' ('ex-') a 'tube' ('tubare') — that's why extubate means to remove a tube.

Visually Confused Words