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Palpate Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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palpate

[ˈpælpeɪt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

medical examination

To palpate means to examine a part of the body by touch, typically to diagnose a medical condition. It is a fundamental technique used by healthcare professionals to assess the size, shape, firmness, or location of body structures.

Synonyms

examine, feel, inspect.

Examples of usage

  • The doctor will palpate your abdomen to check for any abnormalities.
  • During the examination, the nurse palpated the patient's lymph nodes.
  • He learned to palpate the heartbeat to ensure proper circulation.
  • Medical students are trained to palpate various organs during their studies.

Translations

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Origin of 'palpate'

The term 'palpate' originates from the Latin word 'palpare', meaning 'to touch' or 'to stroke'. The prefix 'palp-' relates to touching, which is fundamental to the meaning of the verb. The word entered the English language in the early 19th century, particularly in medical terminology, as practitioners began to emphasize the importance of physical examination techniques in diagnosis. The growth of modern medicine necessitated precise terminologies for specific procedures, hence the adoption of 'palpate' to describe the act of examining through touch. In clinical practice, palpation is critical for various examinations, from assessing the abdomen to detecting swellings and tenderness in different body areas. Its roots in tactile evaluation underscore the importance of hands-on skills in healthcare practice.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,264 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.