epiglottis

epiglottis /epi·glot·tis/ (-glot´is) the lidlike cartilaginous structure overhanging the entrance to the larynx, guarding it during swallowing.epiglot´tic

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ep·i·glot·tis (p-glts)

n. pl. ep·i·glot·tis·es or ep·i·glot·ti·des (-glt-dz)

The thin elastic cartilaginous structure located at the root of the tongue that folds over the glottis to prevent food and liquid from entering the trachea during the act of swallowing.

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epi·glottic adj.

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Epiglottis

A leaf-like piece of cartilage extending upwards from the larynx, which can close like a lid over the trachea to prevent the airway from receiving any food or liquid being swallowed.

Mentioned in: Epiglottitis, Laryngitis, Swallowing Disorders

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epiglottis

[ep′iglot′is]

Etymology: Gk, epi + glossa, tongue

the thin, leaf-shaped cartilaginous structure that overhangs the larynx like a lid and prevents food from entering the larynx and the trachea while swallowing.

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epiglottis [ep″ĭ-glot´is]

the lidlike cartilaginous structure overhanging the entrance to the larynx. adj., adj epiglot´tic. The muscular action of swallowing closes the opening to the trachea by placing the larynx against the epiglottis. This prevents food and drink from entering the larynx and trachea, directing it instead into the esophagus. (See Plates.)

Epiglottis in a sagittal section of the head and neck. From Dorland's, 2000.

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epiglottis (ep´iglot´is),

n an elastic cartilage, covered by mucous membrane, that forms the superior part of the larynx and guards the glottis during swallowing.

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epiglottis

the lidlike cartilaginous structure guarding the entrance to the larynx.

The muscular action of swallowing closes the opening to the trachea by placing the larynx against the epiglottis. This prevents food and drink from entering the larynx and trachea, directing it instead into the esophagus.