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punción means puncture / tap — a common term in Medical Spanish. Learn how it's used in a real-world example.

📅 Published: October 8, 2025

🩺 Medical Spanish

punción

noun • /[poon-SYON]/

puncture / tap

Example:

Realizaremos una punción lumbar esta tarde.

We will perform a lumbar puncture this afternoon.

🧠 What does punción mean?

Punción translates to "puncture" or "tap" in English. In a medical context, it refers to the act of piercing or penetrating a body part, typically with a needle, for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes. This could be to draw a sample of fluid, such as blood or spinal fluid, or to administer medication.

📚 Extra examples

  • El médico realizó una punción lumbar para analizar el líquido cefalorraquídeo.
    The doctor performed a lumbar puncture to analyze the cerebrospinal fluid.
  • La punción venosa es un procedimiento común para extraer sangre.
    Venipuncture is a common procedure for drawing blood.
  • Sentí un ligero dolor durante la punción.
    I felt a slight pain during the puncture.

💡 Did You Know?

The term 'punción' comes from the Latin word 'punctio,' meaning 'pricking' or 'stinging.'

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "punción"

Synonyms: perforación, picadura (in some contexts)

🔍 See more medical spanish words

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'puncture / tap' in Spanish?
The Spanish word for 'puncture' or 'tap' in a medical context is 'punción'.
How do you pronounce 'punción' in Spanish?
It's pronounced poon-thee-OHN, with the stress on the last syllable.
How do you use 'punción' in a sentence?
Here are some examples: 'El médico realizará una punción.' (The doctor will perform a puncture.) or 'Me hicieron una punción en el brazo.' (They did a puncture in my arm.)
What is the English translation of 'punción'?
'Punción' translates to 'puncture' or 'tap' in English.
Does 'punción' change for gender or number?
No, 'punción' is a feminine noun and doesn't change for number. The plural is 'punciones'.
Is 'punción' common in everyday Spanish?
While you might hear it in casual conversation related to medical experiences, 'punción' is primarily used in medical settings.
Does 'punción' have slang or double meanings?
Not really. In its medical context, 'punción' has a very specific meaning and isn't used slangily. It is a formal medical term.
Is 'punción' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
No, the meaning and usage of 'punción' are consistent across Spain and Latin America.

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