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urinate

C2
verb

Pronunciation

UK

  • /jˈɔːrɪnˌeɪt/

US

  • /ˈjɜrəˌneɪt/

Description

To urinate is to release urine from your body. It is a natural and necessary process for humans and animals, and it usually happens several times a day as the body removes liquid waste. Although it is a private act, the word is often used in medical situations or when talking about animal behavior. For example, a doctor might ask whether you can urinate normally, or a pet owner might notice that their dog needs to urinate outside.

Because "urinate" is a clinical term, using it in casual social settings can sometimes feel a bit stiff or awkward. In polite company, people often prefer euphemisms like "using the restroom" or "going to the bathroom." However, in a professional or healthcare environment, using the direct term "urinate" is the most precise and appropriate way to communicate.

Examples

  1. 1

    Medical test

    The nurse asked him to urinate in a cup for the test.

    • Usage

      urinate is a formal or medical word; in everyday speech, people often say pee.

  2. 2

    Medicine side effect

    Some medicines can make it hard to urinate.

  3. 3

    Pain symptom

    If you feel pain when you urinate, you should see a doctor.

  4. 4

    Public behavior

    The sign warned people not to urinate in the alley.

  5. 5

    Pets

    Pet owners were asked not to let their dogs urinate on the grass.

Forms and spellings

4 forms open this card.

Main spelling

  • urinateverb

Forms

  • urinating-ing formverb
  • urinatedpast tenseverb
  • urinatesverb