What does the term "void" refer to in medical terminology?

In medical terminology, the term "void" specifically refers to the action of passing urine. It originates from the Latin term "voidare," which means "to empty." When a person voids, they are expelling urine from the urinary bladder through the urethra.

This action is a normal physiological process that allows the body to eliminate waste products and excess fluids. Understanding this term is particularly important in medical contexts, as healthcare professionals often need to assess a patient's urinary output for various health evaluations. Knowing that "void" means to pass urine helps in interpreting instructions or documentation related to patient care regarding urinary habits or conditions.