Catgut: meaning, definitions and examples
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catgut
[ ˈkætgʌt ]
material use
Catgut is a type of cord made from the natural fiber derived from the intestines of animals, typically sheep or goats. It has been traditionally used in many applications, including sutures in surgery, as well as for musical instrument strings. Despite its name, it is not made from cats.
Synonyms
animal gut, surgical gut.
Examples of usage
- The surgeon used catgut to stitch the wound.
- She preferred catgut strings for her violin for a warmer tone.
- Catgut was once common in the manufacturing of tennis rackets.
Translations
Translations of the word "catgut" in other languages:
🇵🇹 tripa de gato
🇮🇳 बिल्ली की आंत
🇩🇪 Darm
🇮🇩 usus kucing
🇺🇦 котяча кишка
🇵🇱 jelita kocie
🇯🇵 猫腸
🇫🇷 boyau de chat
🇪🇸 intestino de gato
🇹🇷 kedi bağırsak
🇰🇷 고양이 장
🇸🇦 أمعاء القط
🇨🇿 střevo kočky
🇸🇰 črevá mačky
🇨🇳 猫肠
🇸🇮 mačje črevo
🇮🇸 köttur þarma
🇰🇿 мысықтың ішегі
🇬🇪 კატის ნაწლავი
🇦🇿 pişik bağırsağı
🇲🇽 intestino de gato
Etymology
The term 'catgut' has a somewhat misleading etymology. It is believed to have originated from the Middle English word 'catgutte', which most likely refers to 'kitten gut'. Although it suggests that the material comes from cats, this is not the case, as catgut is predominantly derived from the intestines of sheep and goats. The usage of catgut dates back to ancient times when it was utilized for various purposes such as string for musical instruments and for surgical sutures. The name may have been influenced by the idea that gut from different animals was used, but the association with cats seems largely unfounded. Over time, catgut became renowned for its strength and elasticity, thus making it a preferred choice for various applications. In modern times, synthetic alternatives have largely replaced catgut in many uses, though it remains valued among certain musicians and craftspersons for its unique qualities.