Definition

Relating to or resembling a sphincter, which is a muscle that constricts or closes an opening in the body.

Example

The sphincteric muscles help control the flow of urine from the bladder.

Conversation

I just read an article about the sphincteric muscles in our body.

Really? I didn’t know those muscles had a specific name.

Yeah, they play an important role in controlling bodily functions.

That’s fascinating! I guess we often take them for granted.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Sphincteric → It is formed from "sphincter" (from Greek "sphinkter", meaning to bind or tighten) and the suffix "-ic" (meaning pertaining to). The word "sphincteric" refers to something that is related to or characteristic of a sphincter, which is a muscle that constricts or tightens an opening.

Memory Tip

Think of the Greek word for 'to bind' or 'tighten' when remembering that 'sphincteric' relates to muscles that constrict openings.

Visually Confused Words