lavage

[ luh-vahzh, lav-ij ]

noun

1. a washing.
2. Medicine/Medical.
   1. cleansing by irrigation or the like.
   2. the washing out of the stomach.

lavage

/ ˈlævɪdʒ; læˈvɑːʒ /

noun

1. med the washing out of a hollow organ by flushing with water

Word History and Origins

Origin of lavage¹

1890–95; < French: literally, a washing, equivalent to lav ( er ) to wash (< Latin lavāre ) + -age -age

Word History and Origins

Origin of lavage¹

C19: via French, from Latin lavāre to wash

Example Sentences

A technique devised by Dr. Love, known as ductal lavage, can screen patients for an elevated risk of breast cancer.

From New York Times

Then, they performed a delicate task called gastric lavage.

From New York Times

The woman’s infection is the first to be linked to improper nasal lavage, according to Piper.

From Seattle Times

He also had an arthroscopic lavage procedure to clean out his right knee.

From Washington Times

The right knee procedure – known as an arthroscopic lavage – is considered routine and relatively minor, but the operation on the left knee would’ve sidelined Wall for months had he undergone it during the season.

From Washington Post

Related Words

• bath
• bathing
• laundry
• soaking