: a cross-sectional, three-dimensional image of an internal body part produced by computed tomography chiefly for diagnostic purposes
The CT scan showed dilation of the ventricles, the fluid-filled cavities in the brain.Burak Ozgur
What distinguishes a CT scan from a conventional x-ray is its geometry. … Measurements are collected and assembled by a computer into images that correspond to anatomical slices of the body.Adam Rogers

called also CAT scan

see ct scanner
CT scanning noun

Examples of CT scan in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Meanwhile, right-hander Blake Treinen had X-rays and a CT scan after being hit in the right side by a line drive during Saturday’s game. Bill Plunkett, Orange County Register, 11 Mar. 2024 Doctors decided that Kira needed an immediate CT scan to figure out if there were any internal complications. Pamela Appea, Parents, 9 Mar. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'CT scan.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

computerized tomography

First Known Use

1974, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of CT scan was in 1974

Dictionary Entries Near CT scan

Cite this Entry

“CT scan.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/CT%20scan. Accessed 19 Apr. 2024.

Kids Definition

CT scan

noun

Medical Definition

CT scan

noun
: a cross-sectional, three-dimensional image of an internal body part produced by computed tomography chiefly for diagnostic purposes
A CT scan detected a lesion on her jawbone …David Wallis, The New York Times
The CT scan showed dilation of the ventricles, the fluid-filled cavities in the brain.Burak Ozgur, Discover
The CT scan shows a large mass within the lumen of the ascending colon.The New England Journal of Medicine
What distinguishes a CT scan from a conventional x-ray is its geometry. … Measurements are collected and assembled by a computer into images that correspond to anatomical slices of the body.Adam Rogers, Harvard Medical Health Letter

called also CAT scan

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!