Word Study
seton
CIDE DICTIONARY
seton, n. [F. séton (cf. It. setone), from L. seta a thick, stiff hair, a bristle.].
A few silk threads or horsehairs, or a strip of linen or the like, introduced beneath the skin by a knife or needle, so as to form an issue; also, the issue so formed. [1913 Webster]
OXFORD DICTIONARY
seton, n. Surgery a skein of cotton etc. passed below the skin and left with the ends protruding to promote drainage etc.
Etymology
ME f. med.L seto, seta silk, app. f. L seta bristle
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