Definition

A small flap of cartilage at the back of the throat that covers the windpipe when you swallow, preventing food and drink from entering the lungs.

Example

The epiglottis closes off the windpipe during swallowing to ensure that food goes down the esophagus instead.

Conversation

Did you know that the epiglottis plays a crucial role when we swallow?

Really? I never thought about that before.

Yeah, it helps prevent food from going down the wrong pipe.

That's fascinating! I need to read more about how our bodies work.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Epiglottis → It is formed from "epi-" (meaning upon or over) and "glottis" (from Greek "glōtta", meaning tongue or the opening of the larynx). The word "epiglottis" refers to a flap that covers the opening of the larynx, sitting upon it like a lid.

Memory Tip

Think of the flap that sits 'upon' ('epi-') the 'opening' ('glottis') of the larynx, which helps to prevent food from entering the airway.

Visually Confused Words