syringe
UK: sɪˈrɪndʒ | US: səˈrɪndʒ
n. a medical instrument used to inject or withdraw fluids
vt. to inject or draw out liquid using a syringe
syringe = syr<tube> + inge<noun suffix>
- syr<tube>: Derived from Greek syrinx (tube, pipe), referring to hollow cylindrical structures.
- inge<noun suffix>: A suffix forming nouns, often indicating instruments or tools (similar to -ing in Old English).
Etymology Origin:
The word syringe traces back to the Greek syrinx (tube or pipe), originally used for panpipes or hollow reeds. In medical Latin (syringa), it evolved to denote a device for drawing or injecting fluids. The modern spelling reflects French influence (seringue), with the -inge suffix solidifying its role as a tool noun. The logic is clear: a "tube-like instrument" for liquid transfer.
The nurse used a sterile syringe to administer the vaccine.
Ancient physicians employed primitive syringes made of animal bladders.
Always dispose of used syringes in a sharps container.
The vet filled the syringe with medication for the cat.
Researchers developed a microneedle syringe for painless injections.