suppository

noun

sup·​pos·​i·​to·​ry sə-ˈpä-zə-ˌtȯr-ē 

plural suppositories

: a solid but readily meltable cone or cylinder of usually medicated material for insertion into a bodily passage or cavity (such as the rectum)

Examples of suppository in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

For example, a skin cream used for eczema might separate or change in texture over time, or a suppository containing fever medicine might melt. —Keren Landman, Vox, 4 Nov. 2024

Stimulant laxatives also come in many forms and can be taken as tablets, liquids, powders, chewables, or rectal suppositories. —Amber J. Tresca, Verywell Health, 21 Oct. 2024

Digestive Health Glycerin can relieve constipation when taken as a rectal suppository. —Carley Millhone, Health, 8 Oct. 2024

These come in various forms, including creams, oral medications, and vaginal suppositories. —Wendy Wisner, Health, 29 Sep. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English suppositorie, from Anglo-French, from Medieval Latin suppositorium, from Late Latin, neuter of suppositorius placed beneath, from Latin supponere to put under

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

suppository

noun

sup·​pos·​i·​to·​ry sə-ˈpäz-ə-ˌtōr-ē, -ˌtȯr- 

plural suppositories

: a solid but readily meltable cone or cylinder of usually medicated material for insertion into a bodily passage or cavity (as the rectum, vagina, or urethra)