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Definition of suction

suction

/ˈsʌk.ʃən/
suc · tion

Plural:suctions
•
Adjective:suctional
•
Past Simple:suctioned
•
Past Participle:suctioned
•
Present Participle:suctioning
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suction Lexical Profile

suction Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The creation of a partial vacuum that causes a fluid or solid to be drawn into an interior space or to adhere to a surface.

Example

"The octopus uses the strong suction of its tentacles to hold firmly onto rocks and capture prey."


2

The medical procedure or mechanical process of clearing airways or removing fluids from an area using an aspirator or pump.

Example

"The surgeon applied continuous suction to keep the operating field clear of blood."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• verb

1

To remove fluids, secretions, or debris from a space by means of a partial vacuum.

Example

"The dental assistant will suction the excess water from your mouth while the dentist drills the cavity."

Synonyms
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• Rhymes for suction

Word Origin & Etymology

From Late Latin 'suctio' (a sucking), derived from 'suctus', the past participle of the Latin verb 'sugere' (to suck).

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Suction. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 16, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/suction
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