What does enterally mean?
Enterally is an adverb that indicates something is done or occurs entirely within the body, especially the digestive system. It is often used in medical contexts to describe the absorption of nutrients or the delivery of medication. The term is formal or technical and may not be commonly used in everyday conversation. However, it is an important concept in healthcare and medicine, and understanding its meaning can help individuals navigate complex medical terminology. Enterally is derived from the words 'enter,' meaning 'to go into,' and 'ally,' meaning 'together.' This etymology reflects the word's meaning, which emphasizes the internal or bodily aspect of a process or action.
adverbUsed to indicate that something is done or occurs entirely within the body, especially the digestive system.
- Used to indicate that something is done or occurs entirely within the body, especially the digestive system.
"The nutrients were absorbed enterally, bypassing the need for surgical intervention."
"The nutrients were absorbed enterally, bypassing the need for surgical intervention."
"The patient was fed enterally through a feeding tube."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of enterally
The word enterally is derived from the words 'enter,' meaning 'to go into,' and 'ally,' meaning 'together.' This etymology reflects the word's meaning, which emphasizes the internal or bodily aspect of a process or action. The term is thought to have originated in the medical field, where it is used to describe the absorption of nutrients or the delivery of medication within the body.
How enterally is actually used
Enterally is often used in medical contexts to describe the absorption of nutrients or the delivery of medication within the body. It is a formal or technical term and may not be commonly used in everyday conversation.