cutdown

[ kuht-doun ]

noun

1. reduction; decrease; diminution:

   a cutdown in sales.

2. Surgery. the incision of a superficial vein in order to effect direct insertion of a catheter.

adjective

1. reduced in size.
2. abridged or condensed:

   They televised a cutdown version of the movie.

Word History and Origins

Origin of cutdown¹

First recorded in 1885–90; noun use of verb phrase cut down

Example Sentences

He played three pre-season games for the Chiefs, including one against the Jaguars, but missed out on their 'cutdown day' selection.

From BBC

When that happens, a cutdown procedure is sometimes necessary.

From Seattle Times

A cutdown involves an incision, then the use of forceps to pull tissue away from an interior vein.

From Seattle Times

But it offers no guidance on how far the execution team can go to find a suitable vein, leaving open the possibility of an invasive “cutdown procedure,” Dorsey’s attorneys say.

From Seattle Times

Brenner said Dorsey faces a higher-than-normal risk of needing a cutdown because he is obese.

From Seattle Times