contrast
KON-trast
/ˈkɒn.trɑːst/
A substance injected or swallowed to enhance the visibility of internal structures in medical imaging.
In medical imaging, it specifically refers to 'contrast media' or 'dye'.
The story behind the word. From Latin 'contra' (against) and 'stare' (to stand). It literally means to 'stand against', making things stand out from one another.
Word relationships
- dye: Dye is a common term, but contrast is the accurate medical term.
Commonly confused with
- resolution: Contrast is about the difference in color/shade; resolution is about the sharpness of the image.
Word family
- contrast (verb): To compare in order to show differences.
Collocations
- contrast agent
- contrast medium
- inject contrast
- enhance contrast
Example sentences
- "The technician administered an iodine-based contrast to highlight the patient's blood vessels." Radiology instruction
- "You may feel a warm sensation when the contrast is injected." Patient instructions
Memory hook
Contrast makes things 'stand' out 'against' the background. Stand out against.
When not to use
In general English, it means 'difference'. Be clear in medical contexts that you mean the substance.
Fun facts
- Barium sulfate is a common contrast agent used to image the digestive tract.
Related words
Explore more words
additive, salience, antidote, juxtaposition, foil, diagnostic
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