ostomy

noun

os·​to·​my ˈä-stə-mē How to pronounce ostomy (audio)
plural ostomies
: an operation (such as a colostomy) to create an artificial passage for bodily elimination

Examples of ostomy in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
That kind of inspired the first two pieces — a compression glove for myself and an ostomy bag for her. Angela Andaloro, People.com, 28 Oct. 2024 For those who need a procedure such as placement of an ostomy bag, that awareness can be even more acute, says Gaylyn Henderson, 40, of Atlanta. Elizabeth Millard, TIME, 3 Oct. 2024 Hot off her third, and ultimate, overdose, she was laid up in a nursing home in theoretical recovery with her brand new ostomy bag. Brie Schwartz, Glamour, 23 July 2024 For those with an ostomy, for example, stylish stoma pouch covers and support belts, or specialized lingerie, such as high-waisted crotchless panties, can make intimacy more comfortable. Claire Sibonney, TIME, 4 June 2024 If odor is a concern, oral ostomy deodorizer pills can be helpful, too. Claire Sibonney, TIME, 4 June 2024 Some patients might struggle with changes in their appearance, or need an ostomy bag, either temporarily or permanently. Lisa Jarvis, Twin Cities, 7 Feb. 2024 All the engineering and work that currently goes into space toilets is only necessary because no one has an ostomy! WIRED, 26 Sep. 2023 Starting around age 12, Cheng fed her grandmother lunch, managed her ostomy bag, tucked her in for afternoon naps and walked with her to church on Sundays. Lauren J. Mapp, San Diego Union-Tribune, 18 Apr. 2023

Word History

Etymology

colostomy

First Known Use

1957, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of ostomy was in 1957

Dictionary Entries Near ostomy

Cite this Entry

“Ostomy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ostomy. Accessed 28 Nov. 2024.

Medical Definition

ostomy

noun
os·​to·​my ˈäs-tə-mē How to pronounce ostomy (audio)
plural ostomies
: an operation (as a colostomy, ileostomy, or urostomy) to create an artificial passage for bodily elimination

More from Merriam-Webster on ostomy

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!