clitoridectomy

American  

[klit-er-i-dek-tuh-mee] / ˌklɪt ər ɪˈdɛk tə mi /

noun

plural

clitoridectomies

1. the excision of the clitoris, usually performed as part of female initiation rites, mainly among certain African peoples, but also sometimes used in various societies to curb sexual desire; female circumcision.

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clitoridectomy British  

/ ˌklɪtərɪˈdɛktəmɪ /

noun

1. surgical removal of the clitoris: a form of female circumcision, esp practised as a religious or ethnic rite

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Etymology

Origin of clitoridectomy

First recorded in 1865–70; from Greek clitorid- (combining form of kleitorís clitoris ) + -ectomy

Example Sentences

In a statement on its website, Best Klinik denied "unreliable" reports about its "clitoridectomy service".

From BBC

While the word “clitoridectomy” is never spoken, it’s clear this is the mutilation imposed on Ofglen.

From New York Times

In its statement, Best Klinik insisted it was providing a "clitoridectomy" service only for women aged 18 or older "in response to requests from patients who have a corresponding referral from a doctor".

From BBC