Dictionary.com
definitions

tongue depressor

noun

a broad, thin piece of wood used by doctors to hold down the patient's tongue during an examination of the mouth and throat.

RELATED CONTENT

tongue twisterRead more in this article about some frequently asked questions and fun facts related to our definitions.
READ MORE
silver-tonguedRead more in this article about some frequently asked questions and fun facts related to our definitions.
READ MORE

Nearby words

  1. tongs,
  2. tongshan,
  3. tongue,
  4. tongue cover,
  5. tongue crib,
  6. tongue graft,
  7. tongue hangs out, one's,
  8. tongue in cheek, with,
  9. tongue river,
  10. tongue sole

Origin of tongue depressor

First recorded in 1870–75
Also called tongue blade.
Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019
Medicine definitions for tongue depressor

tongue depressor

n.

A thin blade for pressing down the tongue during a medical examination of the mouth and throat; a spatula.
The American Heritage® Stedman's Medical Dictionary Copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company.