Slough: meaning, definitions and examples

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slough

[slʌf ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

medical

A slough is a mass of dead tissue that separates from healthy tissue in a wound.

Synonyms

dead tissue, necrotic tissue.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
slough	Used in medical contexts to describe the process of shedding dead tissue from the body, particularly in wound care. The wound was clean, but there was some slough that needed to be removed for proper healing
dead tissue	A general term used in both medical and everyday contexts to describe tissue that has died, often due to injury or infection. The doctor examined the wound and noted the presence of dead tissue that required debridement
necrotic tissue	Specifically used in medical and clinical settings to describe tissue that has died due to a lack of blood supply, infection, or other pathological conditions. Often implies a severe or advanced stage of tissue death. The patient's diabetic foot ulcer contained necrotic tissue that necessitated surgical intervention

Word

Description / Examples

slough

Used in medical contexts to describe the process of shedding dead tissue from the body, particularly in wound care.

The wound was clean, but there was some slough that needed to be removed for proper healing

dead tissue

A general term used in both medical and everyday contexts to describe tissue that has died, often due to injury or infection.

The doctor examined the wound and noted the presence of dead tissue that required debridement

necrotic tissue

Specifically used in medical and clinical settings to describe tissue that has died due to a lack of blood supply, infection, or other pathological conditions. Often implies a severe or advanced stage of tissue death.

The patient's diabetic foot ulcer contained necrotic tissue that necessitated surgical intervention

Examples of usage

The nurse cleaned the wound to remove the slough.
After the surgery, the doctor noticed a slough forming on the patient's leg.
The presence of slough can delay the healing process of the wound.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

geography

A slough is a swamp or shallow lake system, often a backwater to a larger body of water.

Synonyms

marsh, swamp, wetland.

Examples of usage

The explorers paddled through the slough, surrounded by tall grasses and cattails.
The slough is home to many species of birds and aquatic plants.
The slough provides a habitat for various wildlife.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word originated from Old English 'sloh,' which meant a muddy or wet place.
In some dialects, it can be pronounced like 'slew,' showing its regional variations.
It was historically used to describe areas that were particularly boggy or unwelcoming.

Nature

Wetlands, including sloughs, play a crucial role in filtering water and providing habitats for wildlife.
Many sloughs are home to migratory birds, serving as essential stopping points for resting and feeding.
They are often rich in biodiversity, supporting various plants, insects, and aquatic creatures.

Literature

The term 'slough' has appeared in various literary works as a metaphor for danger or a complicated situation.
Notably, in John Bunyan's 'Pilgrim's Progress,' the 'Slough of Despond' represents a pit of despair that characters must navigate.
Sloughs in poetry are often used to symbolize transformation or the complexities of life.

Cultural Significance

In many Indigenous cultures, sloughs are seen as sacred places due to their rich ecosystem and resources.
They often feature in local folklore, symbolizing both danger and abundance depending on context.
Conservation efforts often focus on these areas as they are critical for maintaining regional environmental health.

Ecology

Sloughs help in groundwater recharge, which is essential for maintaining local water supplies.
They often regulate local climate by moderating temperatures and supporting humidity levels.
Sloughs are vulnerable to pollution and land development, making conservation efforts important for ecological balance.

Translations

Translations of the word "slough" in other languages:

🇵🇹 pântano

🇮🇳 कीचड़

🇩🇪 Sumpf

🇮🇩 lumpur

🇺🇦 болото

🇵🇱 błoto

🇯🇵 沼地

🇫🇷 marécage

🇪🇸 pantano

🇹🇷 bataklık

🇰🇷 늪

🇸🇦 مستنقع

🇨🇿 bažina

🇸🇰 močiar

🇨🇳 沼泽

🇸🇮 močvirje

🇮🇸 mýri

🇰🇿 батпақ

🇬🇪 ჭაობი

🇦🇿 batqa

🇲🇽 pantano

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,987, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

...
19984 quietness
19985 delirious
19986 nicknamed
19987 slough
19988 riser
19989 wrestled
19990 inculcated
...