CAT scan

[ kat skan ]

noun

1. an examination performed with a CAT scanner.
2. an x-ray image obtained by examination with a CAT scanner.

CAT scan

/ kăt /

1. Short for computerized axial tomography scan. An image of a body structure produced by computerized axial tomography.

CAT scan

1. A three-dimensional image of a cross section of the body made with x-rays that is useful in diagnosing disease (for example, in detecting tumors ). CAT stands for c omputerized a xial t omography, the name of the method used to produce the image.

Word History and Origins

Origin of CAT scan¹

First recorded in 1970–75; c(omputerized) a(xial) t(omography)

Example Sentences

Late last year, Francis underwent a CAT scan that ruled out pneumonia, but the pope was still forced to call off a trip to the Gulf because of a bad bout of acute, infectious bronchitis.

From Seattle Times

Connie Rice, who served on former President Obama’s Task Force on 21st Century Policing, said an interim chief’s job is to give the mayor “a state of the department CAT scan,” a deep assessment of “what are the priorities for hitting reset, identifying areas where there’s been progress made, slippage, areas for repair.”

From Los Angeles Times

He went to the hospital Saturday for a CAT scan, and the Vatican said the test had ruled out pneumonia.

From Washington Times

Francis, who had part of one lung removed as a young man, underwent a CAT scan, Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni said.

From Seattle Times

University of Miami and National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration researchers on Virginia Key are using Tail Doppler Radar to create a three-dimensional image of the storm, almost like a CAT scan.

From Seattle Times