axilla

American  

[ak-sil-uh] / ækˈsɪl ə /

noun

plural

axillae

1. Anatomy. the armpit.

2. Ornithology. the corresponding region under the wing of a bird.

3. Botany. an axil.

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axilla British  

/ ækˈsɪlə /

noun

1. the technical name for the armpit

2. the area on the undersurface of a bird's wing corresponding to the armpit

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Etymology

Origin of axilla

Borrowed into English from Latin around 1610–20

Example Sentences

In this country it is generally introduced into the axilla, and less frequently into the mouth, for the purpose of making an observation.

From A System of Practical Medicine by American Authors, Vol. I Volume 1: Pathology and General Diseases by Various

Intense brown and black pigment forms fine reticulations delimiting bold blue spots on the flanks; this coloration extends to the axilla in many specimens.

From Neotropical Hylid Frogs, Genus Smilisca by Duellman, William E.

A dark stripe extends from the nostril to the eye and thence posteriorly to a point between the axilla and groin.

From A Distributional Study of the Amphibians of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec, Mexico by Duellman, William E.

The whole right arm, but principally the axilla, feels as if it had been dislocated by a blow.

From New, Old, and Forgotten Remedies: Papers by Many Writers by Anshutz, Edward Pollock

The axilla should first be wiped; then the thermometer should be inserted and held for 5 minutes by pressing the arm tightly against the chest wall.

From American Red Cross Text-Book on Home Hygiene and Care of the Sick by Cross, American Red