Forceps

Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˈfɔːrsɛps/

Definitions

• A pair of pincers or tongs used in surgery or other medical procedures to grasp, hold, or manipulate tissues, objects, or parts of the body.
• A tool or instrument resembling pincers, used for a specific purpose, especially in the fields of medicine or science.

Usage Examples

• The surgeon used forceps to clamp the blood vessel during the procedure.
• The dentist carefully used forceps to remove the tooth.
• Forceps are commonly used in childbirth to assist in delivering the baby if necessary.

Etymology

The word "forceps" comes from the Latin word "foris," meaning "outside," and "capere," meaning "to seize." It was originally used in the 17th century to describe a surgical instrument designed for grasping. The modern sense of the word, referring to medical instruments, was popularized in the 18th century.

Synonyms

• Tongs
• Pincers
• Clamp
• Graspers

Antonyms

• Unclamp
• Release
• Free

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The pronunciation of "forceps" generally remains consistent across various dialects, though regional accents may affect the emphasis on syllables. In American English, it is commonly pronounced with emphasis on the first syllable, while British English may present a more balanced stress between the syllables. In non-English-speaking regions, the word is often adopted directly with minor pronunciation adjustments based on the local language's phonetic rules.

Historical Usage

The use of forceps dates back to ancient surgical practices, where they were employed in various forms for procedures like extracting foreign objects from the body or assisting in childbirth. In the 18th century, the modern form of forceps began to be used more widely in obstetrics, revolutionizing the delivery of babies in difficult childbirths. Today, forceps are a standard instrument in both medical and dental fields.

Cultural Nuances

Forceps have a particularly significant role in childbirth in many cultures. In Western medicine, they are commonly used to assist in the delivery of a baby when complications arise. In some traditional settings, forceps may be used for both veterinary and human care, symbolizing precision and control in critical procedures. Though their use has declined with modern advancements, they still hold cultural importance in historical medical practices and represent an important step in obstetrics and surgery.

More Information

Forceps are indispensable tools in a wide range of medical fields, from surgery to dentistry to obstetrics. Their design allows for delicate, controlled movements, essential for procedures that require precision. In obstetrics, forceps may be used to safely assist in a delivery when the baby’s position or the mother's health requires intervention. While forceps are less frequently used with the advent of vacuum extraction and cesarean sections, they remain a vital instrument in medical emergencies and specialized practices.