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Definition of cauterize

cauterize

/ˈkɔː.tə.ɹaɪz/
(UK: cauterise)
cau · ter · ize
Adjective:cauterized
•
Past Simple:cauterized
•
Past Participle:cauterized
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Present Participle:cauterizing
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cauterize Lexical Profile

cauterize Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To burn, sear, or freeze skin or body tissue using a heated instrument, an electric current, or a caustic chemical in order to stop bleeding, seal a wound, or prevent the spread of infection.

Example

"The surgeon had to cauterize the small blood vessels during the procedure to minimize blood loss."

2

To deaden or make insensitive to feelings, emotions, or moral conscience.

Example

"Years of witnessing the harsh realities of the crisis had begun to cauterize his sense of empathy."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
View all antonyms for cauterize

• Nearby Words

causeway
caustic
caustically
cauterize
cautin
caution
cautionary

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the late Middle English period from Late Latin cauterizare, which derives from Ancient Greek kautēriazein ('to brand or burn'), from kautērion ('branding iron') and kaiein ('to burn').

Cite this Entry

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