tampon

American  

[tam-pon] / ˈtæm pɒn /

noun

1. a plug of cotton or the like for insertion into an orifice, wound, etc., chiefly for absorbing blood or stopping hemorrhages.

2. such a plug used for absorbing menstrual flow, especially one that is manufactured commercially.

3. a two-headed drumstick for playing rolls.

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verb (used with object)

1. to fill or plug with a tampon.

tampon British  

/ ˈtæmpɒn /

noun

1. a plug of lint, cotton wool, cotton, etc, inserted into an open wound or body cavity to stop the flow of blood, absorb secretions, etc, esp one inserted into the vagina to absorb menstrual blood

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verb

1. (tr) to plug (a wound, etc) with a tampon

Other Word Forms

• tamponage
  noun

Etymology

Origin of tampon

From French, dating back to 1855–60; see origin at tampion

Example Sentences

I got my period and asked a woman in the train station for a tampon.

From Slate • Oct. 28, 2024

A consumer study published in 2022 by the watchdog group Mamavation in partnership with Environmental Health News found that 22% of the 23 lab-tested tampon brands contained indications of PFAS.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 30, 2024

It's childish and weird to act like even looking at a tampon box will emasculate you.

From Salon • Aug. 8, 2024

In 2021, the government removed the so-called "tampon tax" on period products including sanitary pads and menstrual cups.

From BBC • Nov. 20, 2023

Around her dress, Taylor had constructed a makeshift bandolier out of airplane seat belts, a pink unicorn wallet, and a tampon carrying case.

From "Beauty Queens" by Libba Bray

Related Words

• blockade