bolus

[ boh-luhs ]

noun

, plural bo·lus·es.

1. Pharmacology, Veterinary Medicine. a round mass of medicinal material, larger than an ordinary pill. : bol.
2. a soft, roundish mass or lump, especially of chewed food.
3. bole ².

bolus

/ ˈbəʊləs /

noun

1. a small round soft mass, esp of chewed food
2. an intravenous injection of a single dose of a drug over a short period
3. obsolete.
   a large pill or tablet used in veterinary and clinical medicine
4. another word for bole 2

Word History and Origins

Origin of bolus¹

1595–1605; < Late Latin bōlus clod of earth < Greek bôlos clod, lump; bole ²

Word History and Origins

Origin of bolus¹

C17: from New Latin, from Greek bōlos clod, lump

Example Sentences

Nelson and other researchers fear their projects could be left behind if the U.S. government doesn’t ante up a similar bolus of funding.

From Science Magazine

“The bolus of boats in and out of the locks is a delight, as is listening to the sea lions.”

From Seattle Times

“There are some places in the country that don’t ever do the bolus,” Irwin said.

From Seattle Times

Then, with the addition of saliva it helps produce, the tongue shapes mashed food into a rounded “bolus” that can fit easily down the throat.

From Science Magazine

With this update, pump users will be able to program or cancel bolus doses of insulin, which are taken at mealtimes and are crucial in keeping blood glucose levels under control.

From The Verge

Related Words

• dose
• medicine
• tablet