Surgery
Definitions and Samples
1. anesthesia n. Techniques for reducing sensation and feeling, especially
to control pain
The Civil War was the first American war when anesthesia was
widely used in surgery on soldiers.
Usage tips Anesthesia and anesthetic are often used interchangeably.
Parts of speech anesthetic n, adj
2. augment v. To make bigger or better by adding to
In some types of popular cosmetic surgery people augment parts of
their bodies.
The college augmented its course offerings because students complained
that there were too few choices.
Parts of speech augmentation n
3. certifiably adv. In a manner that is officially recognized
He couldn’t be institutionalized until he was declared certifiably
insane.
Parts of speech certify v, certification n, certificate n, certifiable adj
4. complication n. A factor that makes something more difficult or
complex
The surgeons could not easily stop the bleeding because of
complications related to the patient’s diabetes.
Parts of speech complicate v
5. cure v. To restore to health
They say laughter can help cure many illnesses.
Parts of speech cure n
6. implant v. To set in firmly; to insert in the body surgically
The actress had cheek implants to make her face look fuller.
Parts of speech implantation n
7. inject v. To insert a liquid by means of a syringe
The doctor used a needle to inject the medicine slowly into her arm.
Parts of speech injection n
8. obese adj. Excessively overweight
More Americans are obese now because U.S. culture encourages
overeating and discourages exercise.
Parts of speech obesity n
9. procedure n. A specific way of performing or doing something
The flight attendant explained the emergency evacuation
procedure.
Parts of speech proceed v, procedural adj
10. scar n. A mark on the skin left after a wound has healed; a lasting sign
of damage, either mental or physical
The surgery was successful, but it left a large scar across her
abdomen.
Parts of speech scar v