Ampule

/ˈæmpjuːl/ noun

Definition

A small sealed glass vial containing a sterile liquid or substance for medical injection or use; variant of ampoule.

Etymology

From ampoule with variant spelling. Ultimately from Latin ampulla (a flask or vessel). This Americanized spelling drops the -o before the -u.

Kelly Says

English spelling loves American shortcuts—compare 'color' to 'colour,' and 'ampule' to 'ampoule.' Doctors in different countries write it differently, but they're all grabbing the same tiny glass bottle.

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