epiglottis

[ ep-i-glot-is ]

noun

, Anatomy.

, plural ep·i·glot·tis·es, ep·i·glot·ti·des [ep-i-, glot, -i-deez].

1. a thin, valvelike, cartilaginous structure that covers the glottis during swallowing, preventing the entrance of food and drink into the larynx.

epiglottis

/ ˌɛpɪˈɡlɒtɪs /

noun

1. a thin cartilaginous flap that covers the entrance to the larynx during swallowing, preventing food from entering the trachea

epiglottis

/ ĕp′ĭ-glŏt′ĭs /

1. A thin, triangular plate of cartilage at the base of the tongue that covers the glottis during swallowing to keep food from entering the trachea.

Derived Forms

• ˌepiˈglottal, adjective

Other Words From

• epi·glottal epi·glottic ep·i·glot·tid·e·an [ep-i-glo-, tid, -ee-, uh, n], adjective
• subep·i·glottal adjective
• subep·i·glottic adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of epiglottis¹

1605–15; < Greek epiglōttís; epi-, glottis

Example Sentences

To this last statement the thyroid and cricoid cartilages and the epiglottis are exceptions, being single.

From Project Gutenberg

On examination the mucous membrane round the epiglottis is seen to be enormously swollen.

From Project Gutenberg

Chest, diaphragm, the closed epiglottis, and the raised palate all form a supply chamber for the breath.

From Project Gutenberg

Removal of a portion of the epiglottis occasionally gives great relief to a patient who is suffering from dysphagia.

From Project Gutenberg

Extrinsic localized malignant tumours which are attached to the epiglottis, or to the aryteno-epiglottic fold.

From Project Gutenberg