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ligature

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /ˈlɪɡətʃər/

KK: /ˈlɪɡətʃər/

noun
Definition

A binding element, such as a cord or wire, used to tie things together, or a character that combines two or more letters.


Example

The surgeon used a ligature to close the blood vessel during the operation.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever seen a ligature in a musical score?
Sloth B
Yeah, it's that curved line connecting the notes, right?
Sloth A
Exactly! It shows which notes should be played together.
Sloth B
I find it really helpful for understanding the flow of the music.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
binding
cord
slur
Antonyms
separation
disconnection
division
transitive verb
Definition

To tie or bind something, especially in a medical context, often using a ligature.


Example

The surgeon had to ligature the blood vessels during the operation.


Tense Forms

Past: ligated

Past Participle: ligated


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you see how the doctor had to ligature the blood vessels during the surgery?
Sloth B
Yeah, it’s fascinating how they do that to prevent bleeding.
Sloth A
I can’t imagine being that precise; surgery seems so intense.
Root Explanation

Ligature → It is formed from "ligare" (meaning to bind) and the suffix "-ure" (indicating a process or result). The word "ligature" refers to the process or result of binding or tying things together.

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'ligate' which means to bind, and remember that a 'ligature' is something that binds or ties things together.

Visually Confused Words
ligure
unligatured
signature
plicature
lineature
foliature
climature
vasoligature
Is this page helpful?
Sloth B
Definitely! It takes a lot of skill and practice to master.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
tie
bind
fasten
Antonyms
loosen
detach
release