Abortion (ab-or'shun). The expulsion of the fetus before the sixteenth
week.
Abrasion (ab-ra-zhun). A spot rubbed bare of the skin or mucous membrane.
Abscess (ab'ses). A localized collection of pus in a cavity formed by the
disintegration of tissues.
Absorbent (ab-sor'bent). Taking up by suction. A medicine or dressing that
promotes absorption.
Acid (as'id). Sour, having properties opposed to those of the alkalies.
Acidity (as-id'it-e). The quality of being acid or sour.
Acrid (ak'rid). Pungent; producing an irritation.
Acetabulum (as-et-ab'u-lum). The rounded cavity in the innominate (hip)
bone which receives the head of the femur.
Accoucheur (ah-kosh'er). An obstetrician. One who attends a woman in
confinement.
Actual Cautery (kaw'tere). Fire, a red hot iron, or the moxa, used as a
cauterizing agent.