noun
compress
A folded cloth pad held against the body to treat an injury or relieve discomfort.
She holds a cold compress against her ankle to reduce swelling.
Etymology
The Latin verb means to press together. The medical noun names a folded pad applied against the body, often combining pressure with warmth, cold, or moisture.
More examples
- A warm compress helps soothe his irritated eyelid.
- The nurse replaces the compress on my forehead.
- We make cold compresses by folding clean washcloths soaked in cool water.
Forms
compress · compresses