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Ultrasound Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿฉป
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ultrasound

[หˆสŒltrษ™หŒsaสŠnd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

medical imaging

Ultrasound refers to the use of high-frequency sound waves to create images of organs and structures inside the body. It is a non-invasive diagnostic tool that is widely used in various medical fields, including obstetrics and gynecology, cardiology, and musculoskeletal imaging. During an ultrasound examination, a transducer emits sound waves that bounce off internal tissues, which are then recorded to produce images. This technique is favored for its safety, as it does not involve radiation, and is often used for monitoring fetal development during pregnancy.

Synonyms

echo imaging, sonography, ultrasonography.

Examples of usage

  • The doctor ordered an ultrasound to check the baby's growth.
  • They used ultrasound to diagnose the patient's gallbladder condition.
  • An abdominal ultrasound can help visualize organs like the liver and kidneys.

Translations

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

Origin of 'ultrasound'

The term 'ultrasound' is derived from the prefix 'ultra-', which means 'beyond', indicating that the sound waves used are beyond the audible range of human hearing, typically above 20 kHz. The scientific exploration of ultrasound began in the 19th century, but it was only during the early 20th century that its medical applications started to develop. Various researchers contributed to ultrasound technology, with notable advancements occurring during and after World War II, particularly in sonar technology. This led to the adaptation of ultrasound for diagnostic purposes in medicine, with the first commercial ultrasound machines emerging in the 1950s. Since then, ultrasound has revolutionized medical imaging, providing real-time visualization of organs and structures, and enhancing diagnostic accuracy while being safe and versatile.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,343, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.