obturate

[ob-tuh-reyt, -tyuh-]

verb (used with object)

obturated, obturating 

1. to stop up; close.

2. Ordnance.,  to close (a hole or cavity) so as to prevent a flow of gas through it, especially the escape of explosive gas from a gun tube during firing.

obturate

/ ˈɒbtjʊəˌreɪt /

verb

1. (tr) to stop up (an opening, esp the breech of a gun)

Other Word Forms

• obturation noun
• obturator noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of obturate¹

1550–60; < Latin obtūrātus, past participle of obtūrāre to block, stop up

Word History and Origins

Origin of obturate¹

C17: from Latin obtūrāre to block up, of obscure origin

Example Sentences

Obturate, ob′tū-rāt, v.t. to close or stop up.—ns.

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