General Anatomy · Respiratory System · Medium

Epiglottis

Meaning: Leaf-shaped flap of cartilage that covers the laryngeal inlet during swallowing.

In practice: In children it is relatively long, floppy and narrow, which affects airway management.

Word parts

Many medical words are built from Greek and Latin parts like these, so learning a few helps you work out new terms.

Two questions on related general anatomy words.

Which word means: One of the small bones that make up the spinal column.

Which word means: Relating to the lower back region of the spine.

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