cervix

noun

cer·​vix ˈsər-viks How to pronounce cervix (audio)
plural cervices ˈsər-və-ˌsēz How to pronounce cervix (audio)
(ˌ)sər-ˈvī-(ˌ)sēz
or cervixes
1
: neck
especially : the back part of the neck
2
: a constricted portion of an organ or part
especially : the narrow outer end of the uterus

Examples of cervix in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In 2014, the FDA approved the first primary HPV test—for use in place of a Pap, in some people—but the cells still had to get plucked from your cervix by a doctor via a pelvic exam, so the experience stayed the same. Erica Sloan, SELF, 9 May 2025 Cervical mucus is fluid produced by glands within the cervix. Angelica Bottaro, Verywell Health, 5 May 2025 The procedure would remove organs like the womb, cervix, and any part of the reproductive system. Lea Veloso, StyleCaster, 23 Apr. 2025 Cervical insufficiency, also referred to as an incompetent cervix, is a condition that occurs typically in the second trimester (typically between 14-24 weeks) when the cervical canal prematurely dilates and effaces, often leading to miscarriage or preterm birth. Essence, 11 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for cervix

Word History

Etymology

Latin cervic-, cervix

First Known Use

1694, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of cervix was in 1694

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Cervix.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cervix. Accessed 19 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

cervix

noun
cer·​vix ˈsər-viks How to pronounce cervix (audio)
plural cervices ˈsər-və-ˌsēz How to pronounce cervix (audio) or cervixes
: the narrow outer end of the uterus that opens into the cavity of the vagina

Medical Definition

cervix

noun
cer·​vix ˈsər-viks How to pronounce cervix (audio)
plural cervices -və-ˌsēz, ˌsər-ˈvī-(ˌ)sēz How to pronounce cervix (audio) or cervixes
1
: neck sense 1a
especially : the back part of the neck
2
: a constricted portion of an organ or part: as
a
: the narrow lower or outer end of the uterus
b
: the constricted cementoenamel junction on a tooth

More from Merriam-Webster on cervix

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