Definition

A small piece of tissue located in the throat that helps protect the body from infections.

Example

The doctor said my tonsils are swollen and may need to be removed.

Conversation

Did you ever have your tonsils removed when you were a kid?

Yeah, I did! It was such a weird experience.

I heard it can help with sore throats a lot.

Definitely! I haven't had a bad throat since then.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

**Tonsil** → The word 'tonsil' comes from the Latin 'tonsilla' (meaning a small tonsil or almond), which is derived from 'tondere' (meaning to cut or shear). The term refers to the small, almond-shaped masses of lymphatic tissue located in the throat, which can be seen as 'cutting' or 'shearing' through the throat's structure.

Memory Tip

Think of the Latin word 'tonsilla' meaning a small almond, which helps you remember that tonsils are almond-shaped tissues in the throat.

Visually Confused Words