lancet

noun

lan·​cet ˈlan(t)-sət How to pronounce lancet (audio)
1
: a sharp-pointed and commonly 2-edged surgical instrument used to make small incisions
2
a
: lancet window
b
: lancet arch

Examples of lancet 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.
Bees, wasps, and ants deliver venom via their stingers, either by contracting muscles around the venom reservoir or through stiff elements called lancets working together to pump venom. — Jennifer Ouellette, ArsTechnica, 13 Oct. 2026 Each lancet carries a flexible valve that moves within an enlarged chamber, or bulb, where venom collects before being expelled. — Mike McRae 12, New Atlas, 13 Oct. 2026 Remove the lancet and carefully discard into a sharps container. — Karen Berger, Verywell Health, 30 June 2026 The collection also accepts medical sharps, including diabetic needles, blood lancets, insulin pens, epi-pens, syringes, expired over-the-counter medicines and non-narcotic prescriptions. — Post-Tribune, Chicago Tribune, 29 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for lancet

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of lancet was in the 15th century

Phrases Containing lancet

Browse Nearby Words

lance snake
lancet
lancet arch
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Lancet.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lancet. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

lancet

noun
lan·​cet ˈlan(t)-sət How to pronounce lancet (audio)
: a sharp-pointed and usually two-edged surgical instrument

Medical Definition

lancet

noun
lan·​cet ˈlan(t)-sət How to pronounce lancet (audio)
: a sharp-pointed and commonly two-edged surgical instrument used to make small incisions (as in a vein or a boil)

called also lance

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