n.
Pronunciation: ' fis(h)-ch ə -l ə
Function: noun
Inflected Form: plural -las or -lae \ - ˌ l ē , - ˌ l ī \
Etymology: Middle English, from Latin, pipe, fistula
Date: 14th century
: an abnormal passage that leads from an abscess or hollow organ or part to the body surface or from one hollow organ or part to another and that may be surgically created to permit passage of fluids or secretions