X-ray [X-rayX-raysX-rayedX-raying] noun, verb BrE [ˈeks reɪ] NAmE [ˈeks reɪ] noun 1. usually plural a type of ↑radiation that can pass through objects that are not transparent and make it possible to see inside them •an X-ray machine (= one that produces ↑X-rays ) 2. a photograph made by X-rays, especially one showing bones or organs in the body •a chest X-ray •The doctor studied the X-rays of her lungs. •to take an X-ray 3. a medical examination using X-rays •I had to go for an X-ray.
Word Origin: translation of German X-Strahlen (plural), from X- (because, when discovered in 1895, the nature of the rays was unknown) + Strahl ‘ray’.
Example Bank: •The X-ray showed a crack in one rib. •The dentist took an X-ray of my jaw. •The result of the X-ray gave no cause for concern.
verb ~ sth to photograph and examine bones and organs inside the body, using ↑X-rays •He had to have his chest X-rayed. Verb forms:
Word Origin: translation of German X-Strahlen (plural), from X- (because, when discovered in 1895, the nature of the rays was unknown) + Strahl ‘ray’.
