Puncture: Definition, Medical & Everyday Usage

Puncture (verb/noun): To pierce or penetrate with a sharp object, creating a small hole.

Contexts

• Medical: Needle puncture (venipuncture, lumbar puncture, amniocentesis), puncture wound (nail, bite, projectile).
• Mechanical: Tire puncture, pipe puncture.
• Figurative: “Puncture a myth/balloon” = deflate/disprove.

Medical Significance

Puncture wounds carry high infection risk (deep inoculation, anaerobic environment); may need tetanus prophylaxis, antibiotics, irrigation, or surgical exploration if joint/tendon/vascular involvement suspected.