tonsils

Scientific  

/ tŏn′səlz /

1. The two oval-shaped masses of tissue at the back of the throat that lie between the mouth and the pharynx. The tonsils are thought to prevent infections of the breathing passages but often become infected themselves.

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tonsils Cultural  

1. Two masses of tissue on either side of the throat. The tonsils, part of the lymphatic system, help defend the body against harmful microorganisms.

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Formerly, tonsils were often removed surgically in childhood, but now they are not, unless the tonsils have grown too large or are continually subject to infection.

Example Sentences

Sometimes it’s a decision that is complicated and scary, like surgery for those big tonsils or scoliotic spine.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 5, 2026

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

Doctors this year removed a small tumor in one of his tonsils.

From Washington Times • Nov. 16, 2023

Fish could use something akin to tonsils, says comparative immunologist Larry Dishaw of the University of South Florida, who wasn’t connected to either new study.

From Science Magazine • Oct. 31, 2023

His voice was slightly nasal, perhaps because he needed to have his tonsils and adenoids removed.

From "Endgame" by Frank Brady