Epiglottis

/ˌɛpɪɡlˈɒtiz/

/ˌɛpɪɡlˈɑːɾiz/

[noun]

Epiglottis

[NOUN]

a flap-like structure that prevents food and liquids from entering the windpipe during swallowing

What is "epiglottis"?

The epiglottis is a flap-like structure located at the base of the tongue in the human body. It plays a vital role in the respiratory and digestive systems. During swallowing, the epiglottis folds down to cover the opening of the windpipe (trachea), preventing food and liquids from entering the lungs. This action directs the swallowed material into the esophagus and down into the stomach. The epiglottis acts as a protective mechanism, ensuring that food and fluids go down the correct pathway and not into the respiratory system.

Examples

1. The big floppy thing is called the epiglottis.

2. The epiglottis comes back, and it toggles, or it literally acts as the umpire or the referee of the throat.

3. TWANG is a tightened epiglottis sphincter muscle that closes down your epiglottitis.

4. Your doctor will gently raise the epiglottis, which is a flap of tissue protecting your larynx, as they advance the tip of the endotracheal tube into the trachea.