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Definition of amputate

amputate

/ˈæm.pjʊ.teɪt/
am · pu · tate
Adjective:amputated
•
Past Simple:amputated
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Past Participle:amputated
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Present Participle:amputating
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amputate Lexical Profile

amputate Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To cut off or remove a limb, digit, or other projecting part of the body by means of a surgical operation.

Example

"The surgical team had no choice but to amputate the patient's severely frostbitten toes to prevent further infection."

2

To cut away, prune, or drastically remove a part of something, such as a branch from a tree or a section from a work.

Example

"The arborist decided to amputate the diseased lower limbs of the ancient oak tree before winter arrived."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Nearby Words

amply
ampoule
ampule
amputate
amputation
amputator
amputee

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the late 16th century from Latin amputatus, past participle of amputare ('to lop off, prune around'), formed from amb- ('around') and putare ('to prune, trim, or reckon').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Amputate. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/amputate
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