A syringe is a medical device used to inject fluid into or withdraw fluid from the body. It is a simple reciprocating pump consisting of a plunger or piston that fits tightly within a cylindrical tube called a barrel. The plunger can be linearly pulled and pushed along the inside of the tube, allowing the syringe to take in and expel liquids. Syringes are frequently used in clinical medicine to administer injections, infuse intravenous therapy into the bloodstream, apply compounds such as glue or lubricant, and draw/measure liquids.

Syringes can be made of different materials depending on their use. Historically, syringes were made of metal and glass, which allowed them to be used, cleaned, and reused. However, today most syringes used in medicine are plastic and disposable. Syringes come in various sizes ranging from 0.5 mL to 60 mL. They can be supplied individually or with a needle and protective cover attached.

There are different types of syringes, including three-part and two-part syringes. A three-part syringe contains a plastic plunger/piston with a rubber tip to create a seal between the piston and the barrel, while a two-part syringe is manufactured to create a perfect fit between the plastic plunger and the barrel to create the seal without the need for a separate synthetic rubber piston.

Syringes are not only used in medicine but also in culinary applications. Some culinary uses of syringes include injecting liquids (such as gravy) into other foods, injecting juices inside meat to enhance flavor and texture, and injecting filling inside a pastry.

In summary, a syringe is a medical device used to inject or withdraw fluid from the body. It consists of a plunger or piston that fits tightly within a cylindrical tube called a barrel. Syringes can be made of different materials and come in various sizes. They are also used in culinary applications.