pharynx

phar·ynx

noun \ˈfa-riŋ(k)s\

plural pha·ryn·ges\fə-ˈrin-(ˌ)jēz\ also phar·ynx·es

Definition of PHARYNX

1

: the muscular tubular passage of the vertebrate digestive and respiratory tracts extending from the back of the nasal cavity and mouth to the esophagus — compare nasopharynx, oropharynx

2

: a differentiated part of the alimentary canal in some invertebrates that may be thickened and muscular, eversible and toothed, or adapted as a suctorial organ

Origin of PHARYNX

New Latin pharyng-, pharynx, from Greek, throat, pharynx; akin to Old Norse barki throat and probably to Latin ferire to strike — more at bore

First Known Use: 1677