intravenous

American  

[in-truh-vee-nuhs] / ˌɪn trəˈvi nəs /

adjective

1. within a vein.

2. of, pertaining to, employed in, or administered by injection into a vein.

   an intravenous solution.

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noun

1. an intravenous injection.

2. intravenous feeding. IV

intravenous British  

/ ˌɪntrəˈviːnəs /

adjective

1. Abbreviations (esp of an injection): IV.   i.v..  anatomy within a vein

   an intravenous injection

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intravenous Scientific  

/ ĭn′trə-vē′nəs /

1. Existing or occurring within a vein.

2. Administered into a vein, as an injection.

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intravenous Cultural  

1. A descriptive term for things within a vein. Intravenous feeding or medication is the passing of nutrients or medicines into a vein through a tube.

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Other Word Forms

• intravenously adverb

Etymology

Origin of intravenous

First recorded in 1840–50; intra- + venous

Example Sentences

Future studies will test whether the compound remains effective when patients are also receiving intravenous nutrition, which can place additional stress on the liver.

From Science Daily • Mar. 18, 2026

So bad was the injury, in fact, that Moss was kept in hospital on an intravenous drip.

From BBC • Mar. 13, 2026

He is receiving intravenous antibiotics to treat "bilateral bacterial bronchopneumonia," the statement said.

From Barron's • Mar. 13, 2026

For intravenous hydration bags promising to boost immunity, fight nausea or promote health and beauty, Planned Parenthood Mar Monte visitors pay $100 to $150.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 1, 2026

From a metal rig hung a plastic bag of ginger-colored fluid, the intravenous tube disconnected and dangling to the floor.

From "Hoot" by Carl Hiaasen

Related Words

• drip