Ways to say it
| Spanish | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| enema | /eˈnema/ | masculine |
| lavativa | /labaˈtiba/ | feminine |
| clister | /klisteɾ/ (from spelling rules) | masculine |
| clistel | /klistel/ (from spelling rules) | masculine |
The term refers to the injection of fluid into the rectum. To describe the action of administering one, Spanish speakers typically use the verb poner (to put/place), such as in the phrase poner un enema.
Which one should you use?
The choice of word depends on the context: enema is the standard medical term used in clinical settings, while lavado intestinal is a formal expression meaning "intestinal wash". Other variations include the feminine noun lavativa and the masculine nouns clister and clistel.
How does it change in a sentence?
As a masculine noun, enema is preceded by the masculine articles un or el. In contrast, the feminine noun lavativa is preceded by the feminine articles una or la.
How do you pronounce it?
/eˈnema/
Did you know?
- The Spanish term clister is a loanword from the French 'clystère', which entered the language as a common alternative to the Latin-based enema.
- The word lavativa is conceptually linked to the verb lavar, mirroring the English root in 'lavatory' and 'lavatory bowl'.
- The word enema traces its lineage back to the Ancient Greek verb eníēmi, which literally meant 'to send in'.
Example sentences for Spanish are not verified yet.
Example conversation
Javier is talking to María, a nurse, at a clinic.
- JavierMaría, ¿cómo se aplica este enema?María, how do I apply this enema?
- MaríaPrimero debe acostarse de lado, Javier.First you must lie on your side, Javier.
- Javier¿Es muy doloroso el proceso?Is the process very painful?
- MaríaNo, es solo un poco incómodo.No, it is just a bit uncomfortable.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “enema” translations and entries enema, lavativa, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries enema, CC BY-SA 4.0.
