n. & v.
--n.
1. Med. a a tube with a nozzle and piston or bulb for sucking in and ejecting liquid in a fine stream, used in surgery. b (in full hypodermic syringe) a similar device with a hollow needle for insertion under the skin.
2 any similar device used in gardening, cooking, etc.
--v.tr. sluice or spray (the ear, a plant, etc.) with a syringe.
Etymology: ME f. med.L syringa (as SYRINX)