pharynx

American  

[far-ingks] / ˈfær ɪŋks /

noun

Anatomy.

plural

pharynges, pharynxes

1. the tube or cavity, with its surrounding membrane and muscles, that connects the mouth and nasal passages with the esophagus.

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pharynx British  

/ ˈfærɪŋks /

noun

1. the part of the alimentary canal between the mouth and the oesophagus Compare nasopharynx

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pharynx Scientific  

/ făr′ĭngks /

plural

pharynges

1. The passage that leads from the cavities of the nose and mouth to the larynx (voice box) and esophagus. Air passes through the pharynx on the way to the lungs, and food enters the esophagus from the pharynx.

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Etymology

Origin of pharynx

1685–95; < New Latin < Greek phárynx throat, akin to pháranx gulf, chasm

Compare meaning

How does pharynx compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• pharynx vs. larynx

Example Sentences

Odor compounds are released as we chew or sip, traveling from the mouth to the nose though the nasal pharynx at the back of throat.

From Science Daily • Feb. 9, 2026

She does this in order to pick her nose, before licking the mucus, as scientists confirmed by observation followed by CAT scan to determine that the chopstick-like digit reaches all the way to the pharynx.

From Salon • May 11, 2025

He said “there is also the possibility that virus could enter via the tonsils in the pharynx of the cats prior to ingestion in both the bird consumption and milk consumption scenarios.”

From Los Angeles Times • May 12, 2024

A singer’s vocal tone, or timbre, is shaped by the tissue in her mouth, tongue, pharynx and face, he said, adding that it was possible this tissue became more supple after pregnancy.

From New York Times • Jun. 28, 2023

You don’t want hot water, either, because it can cause your pharynx to swell slightly.

From "Shine!" by J.J. and Chris Grabenstein

Related Words

• esophagus
• larynx