tampon

[tam-pon]

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.

verb (used with object)

1. to fill or plug with a tampon.

tampon

/ 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

verb

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

Other Word Forms

• tamponage noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of tampon¹

From French, dating back to 1855–60; tampion

Word History and Origins

Origin of tampon¹

C19: via French from Old French tapon a little plug, from tape a plug, of Germanic origin

Example Sentences

For many of us, our first lessons about periods were brief and practical, often limited to learning how to use pads or tampons.

Read more on BBC

One woman I interviewed who struggled with infertility threw herself a menopause party complete with tampons wrapped in ribbons and women telling their first period and menopause stories.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Hegseth went on to suggest that the "leftist 'news' media" would rather see him install "tampon machines in every men’s bathroom at DoD."

Read more on Salon

Reusable and sustainable, menstrual cups are an alternative to sanitary pads and tampons.

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A zero rate of VAT on tampons and other sanitary products was introduced by the UK government in 2021.

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Related Words

• blockade