Definition

Referring to a method of delivering medication or nutrients directly into the body, bypassing the digestive system, often through injections.

Example

The doctor recommended a parenteral route for administering the medication to ensure quick absorption.

Conversation

I heard the doctor mention something about parenteral nutrition yesterday.

Oh really? What does that mean exactly?

It means they give nutrients in a way that’s not through the digestive system.

Got it! That sounds important for certain patients.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Parenteral → It is formed from "para-" (meaning beside or beyond) and "enteron" (from Greek, meaning intestine). The term refers to methods of delivering substances that bypass the gastrointestinal tract, thus going 'beside' or 'beyond' the intestines.

Memory Tip

Think of 'beside' or 'beyond' ('para-') the intestines ('enteron') to remember that 'parenteral' refers to delivery methods that do not involve the digestive system.

Visually Confused Words