fistula

noun

fis·​tu·​la ˈfis-chə-lə How to pronounce fistula (audio)
ˈfish-
plural fistulas or fistulae ˈfis-chə-ˌlē How to pronounce fistula (audio) -ˌlī How to pronounce fistula (audio)
ˈfish-
: an abnormal passage that leads from an abscess or hollow organ or part to the body surface or from one hollow organ or part to another and that may be surgically created to permit passage of fluids or secretions

Examples of fistula in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Why the Sleep and Gut Health Link Matters Perianal diseases, including hemorrhoids, anal fissures, anal fistulas and perianal abscesses, are common conditions that can cause significant discomfort. — Samantha Agate, Miami Herald, 3 Sep. 2026 Perianal diseases include hemorrhoids alongside anal fissures, anal fistulas and perianal abscesses, all capable of producing pain, bleeding and difficulty during bowel movements. — Samantha Agate, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 3 Sep. 2026 Bidets may also ease discomfort from hemorrhoids, fistulas and anal fissures, and help people with chronic diarrhea or conditions that require frequent wiping. — Hanna Wickes, Sacbee.com, 29 Aug. 2026 Patients on kidney dialysis need a durable connection between an artery and a vein, called a fistula, so they can be linked to a dialysis machine for treatment. — Shimite Obialo, Forbes.com, 1 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for fistula

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Latin, pipe, fistula

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of fistula was in the 14th century

Rhymes for fistula

See All Rhymes for fistula

Browse Nearby Words

fist pump
fistula
fistula of the withers
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Fistula.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fistula. Accessed 5 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

fistula

noun
fis·​tu·​la ˈfis-chə-lə How to pronounce fistula (audio)
plural fistulas or fistulae -ˌlē How to pronounce fistula (audio)
-ˌlī
: an abnormal passage leading from an abscess or hollow organ

Medical Definition

fistula

1 of 2 noun
fis·​tu·​la
ˈfis(h)-chə-lə, British also ˈfis-tyu̇-lə
plural fistulas or fistulae
-lē also -lī
1
: an abnormal passage that leads from an abscess or hollow organ or part to the body surface or from one hollow organ or part to another and that may be surgically created to permit passage of fluids or secretions
a congenital tracheoesophageal fistula
an arteriovenous fistula was reconstructed in the right arm for dialysis—Pasteur Rasuli et al.
2
: fistulous withers

fistula

2 of 2
see cassia fistula
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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