What does pipette mean?
A pipette is a slender tube used to measure, transfer, or dispense small quantities of liquid, especially in laboratories, medical settings, and scientific research. Some pipettes are graduated with markings, while others are calibrated to deliver a particular volume, such as 10 microlitres or 1 millilitre. The term is closely associated with micropipettes, adjustable instruments that use disposable tips for precise liquid handling. In ordinary writing, “pipette” usually refers to the instrument itself rather than to the act of drawing up liquid, although the word can also be used as a verb meaning to transfer liquid with a pipette. It is a technical word with a clear scientific and laboratory register, but its basic meaning remains easy to understand: a narrow tool for moving small amounts of liquid accurately.
A slender tube used to measure, transfer, or dispense small quantities of liquid.
"The nurse used a pipette to place the drops into the patient’s eye."
The term is especially common in laboratory, medical, and scientific contexts. “Pipet” is a common alternative spelling, particularly in North American English.
To transfer, measure, or dispense liquid using a pipette.
"The researcher pipetted 20 microlitres of the solution into each well."
This use is common in technical and scientific writing; in general conversation, more familiar terms such as “transfer” may be preferred.
The plural is formed by adding “-s” and is used when referring to multiple instruments.
"The laboratory technician sterilized several pipettes before beginning the experiment."
A pipette is a liquid’s precision instrument: its narrow tube lets scientists measure and transfer tiny amounts with remarkable accuracy.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does pipette come from?
The word comes through French, where pipette is a diminutive form associated with pipe, referring to a small tube. English borrowed the term in the 19th century for laboratory instruments used to transfer liquids. Its deeper connection is with the wider family of English words such as pipe, piping, pipeline, and piper, all of which derive from forms of the Latin word for a tube or channel.
Related word forms
How pipette is actually used
In British English, “pipette” is the usual spelling; “pipet” is also used, especially in North American English. The word is primarily associated with laboratory, medical, and scientific contexts.