Caesareanize

/sɪˈzɛəriənaɪz/ verb

Definition

To perform or undergo a Caesarean section (surgical childbirth); to deliver a baby by surgical means rather than naturally.

Etymology

From Caesarean (relating to Julius Caesar or the surgical delivery method, possibly named after Caesar himself, though this etymology is debated) + -ize (suffix meaning 'to make' or 'to perform'). The medical procedure became named after the legendary Caesar birth method.

Kelly Says

Interestingly, there's no proof Caesar himself was born this way—the etymology is likely a folk tale—yet we still use his name for this common surgery performed millions of times yearly, showing how historical legends can reshape medical language.

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