Anaesthetize Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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anaesthetize

[หˆรฆn.ษ™s.ฮธษ™.taษชz ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

medical procedure

Anaesthetize refers to the process of administering an anesthetic to a patient to induce a loss of sensation or awareness, especially during surgical procedures. This is done to prevent pain and discomfort during operations. Various types of anesthetics can be used, including local, regional, and general anesthetics.

Synonyms

anesthetise, deaden, numb, sedate.

Examples of usage

  • The surgeon will anaesthetize the patient before the operation.
  • Patients are often anaesthetized for major surgeries.
  • Before performing the procedure, the doctor will anaesthetize the area.
  • It's crucial to properly anaesthetize the patient to ensure their comfort.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Medical Applications

  • Anaesthesia can be local (affecting a small area) or general (affecting the entire body).
  • Different substances are used to anaesthetize, including gases, liquids, and even injectable drugs.
  • The process has advanced significantly, with modern techniques ensuring safety and effectiveness during surgeries.

Cultural References

  • Anaesthesia has been a popular topic in literature, often symbolizing deep unconsciousness or the state of being unaware.
  • Films frequently depict the use of anaesthesia during dramatic medical scenes, heightening tension and emotion.
  • Songwriters sometimes use themes of anaesthesia to describe feelings of numbness or detachment in relationships.

Pop Culture

  • In the show 'Grey's Anatomy', anaesthesia is frequently referenced as a critical part of surgical storytelling.
  • Anaesthetic practices are humorously portrayed in films like 'The Hangover' where lighthearted situations arise following a medical mishap.
  • Manga and anime sometimes depict characters being anaesthetized in humorous or exaggerated ways for comedic effect.

Scientific Insights

  • Research continues to evolve on how anaesthetics affect the brain, leading to new insights into consciousness.
  • Studies show that different individuals respond uniquely to various anaesthesia types, prompting personalized approaches.
  • Neuroscience explores the effects of anesthesia on memory, where some individuals may not remember the surgery due to its impact.

Origin of 'anaesthetize'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Greek 'anaisthesis', meaning 'without sensation'.
  • The prefix 'an-' means 'without', and 'aisthesis' means 'sensation' or 'feeling'.
  • It was first recorded in English in the 19th century during advances in medicine.

The word 'anaesthetize' originates from the Greek word 'anaisthฤ“sis', meaning 'lack of perception, absence of sensibility', which combines 'a-', a prefix meaning 'without', and 'aisthesis', meaning 'sensation'. The term was first used in the medical field in the early 19th century as anesthetic practices began to emerge, allowing patients to undergo surgery without the pain that was common in earlier medical methods. The spelling of 'anaesthetize' reflects its Greek roots, which have undergone adaptation through Latin and into English. In American English, the spelling is typically 'anesthetize', which simplifies the 'ae' diphthong to an 'e'. The evolution of this term highlights the advancements in medical science and the development of anesthesia as a crucial element in modern surgical procedures.


Word Frequency Rank

At position #41,140, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.