Ostomate is a term used to describe an individual who has undergone ostomy surgery, a procedure where an opening in the abdomen is created in order to provide a new route for waste to exit the body. There are several synonyms that can be used to refer to an ostomate, including stoma patient, ostomy patient, colostomate, ileostomate, and urostomate. While these terms are not interchangeable with one another, each one refers to an individual who has a stoma - an opening made in the skin for the passage of urine or feces. These words are useful for medical professionals and caregivers who work with individuals who have undergone ostomy surgery.