Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Saline Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🧂
Add to dictionary

saline

[ˈseɪ.laɪn ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

medical solution

A saline solution is a mixture of salt in water, commonly used in medical settings for various purposes. It is isotonic, meaning it has the same salt concentration as the cells and blood in the human body. Saline is primarily used for intravenous therapy, wound cleaning, and as a diluent for medications. It can also be utilized in nasal sprays and eye washes to relieve dryness or irritation.

Synonyms

brine, salt solution, salty water.

Examples of usage

  • The nurse administered a saline drip to the patient.
  • A saline solution was used to rinse the wound.
  • Doctors often use saline to hydrate patients.
Context #2 | Adjective

chemical composition

In a chemical context, 'saline' describes a solution that contains salt, typically sodium chloride. Saline solutions have various applications in both chemistry and biology, including agriculture for growing plants that tolerate salinity. The term is often used to highlight the salt content in water bodies, indicating the presence of dissolved salts.

Synonyms

brackish, salty.

Examples of usage

  • The saline environment is suitable for certain marine species.
  • Saline conditions can affect plant growth.
  • The researchers studied the effects of saline waters on aquatic life.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In biology, saline solutions are crucial for maintaining fluid balance in cells and tissues.
  • Saline is often used in medical settings for intravenous therapy to help hydrate patients or deliver medications.

Health

  • Saline nasal sprays are popular for relieving congestion and keeping nasal passages moist.
  • Contact lens solutions often contain saline to keep lenses comfortable when worn.

Environmental Studies

  • Saline water bodies, like oceans, cover about 71% of the Earth's surface, impacting climate and weather patterns.
  • Coastal ecosystems rely on the delicate balance of saline and freshwater for plant and animal life.

Pop Culture

  • Saline solutions appear in many medical dramas and shows, highlighting their importance in emergency medicine.
  • The term is sometimes humorously used in cooking to refer to dishes that are too salty!

Origin of 'saline'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'saline' comes from the Latin word 'sal', which means 'salt'.
  • It was first used in English around the 14th century to describe salt solutions.

The word 'saline' originates from the Latin word 'salinus', which means 'of salt', derived from 'sal', meaning 'salt'. The use of saline solutions dates back to ancient times when they were used for preservation and healing. In medical terminology, the preparation of saline solutions became more formalized in the 19th century with advancements in medical practices. The concept of isotonic solutions was developed in correlation with the understanding of human physiology. Initially, saline was primarily a tool in treating dehydration and other electrolyte imbalances. Over time, its applications have expanded significantly, including in surgical procedures and wound care, showcasing the essential role of saline in modern medicine.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #7,855 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.