pledget

noun

pled·​get ˈple-jət 

: a compress or pad used to apply medication to or absorb discharges (as from a wound)

Word History

Etymology

origin unknown

First Known Use

circa 1540, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

pledget

noun

pled·​get ˈplej-ət 

: a compress or small flat mass usually of gauze or absorbent cotton that is laid over a wound or into a cavity to apply medication, exclude air, retain dressings, or absorb the matter discharged