Definition

A sharp surgical tool with a pointed end, used to puncture a body cavity to remove fluid or insert a tube.

Example

The surgeon used a trocar to drain the fluid from the patient's abdomen.

Conversation

Have you ever seen a trocar in a medical show?

Yeah, I think they use it for surgeries, right?

Exactly! It's such a sharp instrument for puncturing cavities.

I can only imagine how careful they have to be with a trocar.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Trocar originates from the French word 'trocart', which is a combination of 'trois' (meaning three) and 'carre' (meaning square). The term refers to a three-sided cutting instrument used in medical procedures. Thus, a trocar is a three-sided tool used for puncturing or cutting.

Memory Tip

Think of a tool with 'three' ('trois') sharp edges that is used for 'cutting' ('carre') in medical procedures — that's why a trocar is a three-sided cutting instrument.

Visually Confused Words