Anatomy
epiglottis Audio
ep·i·glot·tis [ ep-i-glot-is ]
Subclass of:
Laryngeal cartilage
Etymology:
Greek epi = upon + glottis = glottis
Definitions related to epiglottis:
  • A small cartilagenous flap-like valve that closes over the larynx during swallowing to prevent food entering the lungs.
    NCI
    U.S. National Cancer Institute, 2021
  • A thin leaf-shaped cartilage that is covered with LARYNGEAL MUCOSA and situated posterior to the root of the tongue and HYOID BONE. During swallowing, the epiglottis folds back over the larynx inlet thus prevents foods from entering the airway.
    NLM Medical Subject Headings
    U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2025
  • Cartilaginous lidlike appendage which closes the glottis while food or drink is passing through the pharynx.
    CRISP Thesaurus
    National Institutes of Health, 2006
  • The flap that covers the trachea during swallowing so that food does not enter the lungs.
    NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms
    U.S. National Cancer Institute, 2021
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This content should not be used in place of medically-reviewed decision support reference material or professional medical advice. Some terms may have alternate or updated definitions not reflected in this set. The definitions on this page should not be considered complete or up to date.