noun
retractor
rih-TRAK-tuh
Retractor (noun) means a surgical tool used to hold open the edges of a wound or incision during an operation. Example: “The nurse handed the surgeon a retractor to keep the incision open.”
noun
1
A surgical tool used to hold open the edges of a wound or incision during an operation.
"The nurse handed the surgeon a retractor to keep the incision open."
2
A mechanism in a firearm that pulls the spent cartridge case out of the chamber.
"The rifle's retractor ejected the spent shell automatically."
How to use retractor
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA tool or part designed to pull something back, most often heard in a surgical context.
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Word forms
- Plural
- retractors
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The nurse handed the surgeon a _____ to keep the incision open.
Etymology
From retract + -or, "one that retracts."
Rhymes for retractor
See all rhymes for retractor →Frequently asked questions
What does “retractor” mean?
The word “retractor” means a surgical tool used to hold open the edges of a wound or incision during an operation. In plain terms, a tool or part designed to pull something back, most often heard in a surgical context.
How do you pronounce “retractor”?
“Retractor” is pronounced rih-TRAK-tuh (/ɹɪˈtɹæktɚ/ in IPA).
How do you use “retractor” in a sentence?
Here is “retractor” used in a sentence: “The nurse handed the surgeon a retractor to keep the incision open.”
What part of speech is “retractor”?
“Retractor” is a noun.
How many meanings does “retractor” have?
“Retractor” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a surgical tool used to hold open the edges of a wound or incision during an operation.
