What does suppository mean?
A suppository is a medicinal preparation designed to be placed inside a body opening, most often the rectum. Such preparations are typically solid and gradually melt, dissolve, or soften after insertion, allowing a drug to be absorbed locally or elsewhere. They are used when swallowing a medicine is difficult, unpleasant, or impractical, and they must be stored and handled in ways that suit both their material and the drug they contain. Although “suppository” may sound unusual, it is the standard medical term rather than a euphemism. The word is countable and has the regular plural “suppositories.” In clinical writing, a rectal suppository is inserted into the rectum; other forms may be designed for vaginal or other use. The expression also has a literalized charm: its Latin ancestry refers to something placed underneath, an apt reminder that the medicine sits within the body rather than being swallowed.
nounA typically solid medicinal preparation for insertion into a body opening, especially the rectum, where it dissolves or melts to release its active ingredients.
- A medicinal preparation intended for insertion into a body opening, especially the rectum, where it dissolves or melts and releases its active ingredients.
"The pharmacist explained how to insert the suppository."
"She had been instructed to insert the suppository before bedtime."
"For severe nausea, a clinician may prescribe a suppository when oral medication is unsuitable."
The regular plural is used when referring to multiple medicated inserts or to the dosage form as a category.
"The pharmacist provided instructions for storing the suppositories in a cool place."
Its Latin ancestor literally describes a thing placed underneath—an unexpectedly literal origin for a medicine inserted into the body.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does suppository come from?
The English word comes through Medieval Latin suppositorium, a preparation placed beneath or inside the body, ultimately from Latin supponere, meaning “to place under.” That verb combines sub-, meaning “under,” with ponere, meaning “to put,” the same root found in Latin positio and English words such as position, deposit, and proposition. The term developed in medical usage for a medicinal substance inserted into the body.
How suppository is actually used
The term is primarily used in medicine and pharmacy and has a formal, technical register. US speakers commonly pronounce the stressed vowel as /ɑː/, while British English commonly uses /ɒ/.
Easily confused with suppository
A pessary is specifically designed for insertion into the vagina, whereas a suppository is a broader term for a medicinal insert commonly placed in the rectum.