vagina

va·gi·na

noun \və-ˈjī-nə\

plural va·gi·nae\-(ˌ)nē\ or va·gi·nas

Definition of VAGINA

1

: a canal in a female mammal that leads from the uterus to the external orifice of the genital canal

2

: a canal that is similar in function or location to the vagina and occurs in various animals other than mammals

Origin of VAGINA

Latin, literally, sheath

First Known Use: 1682

Other Anatomy Terms

bilateral symmetry, carotid, cartilage, dorsal, entrails, prehensile, renal, solar plexus, supine, thoracic, ventral

Rhymes with VAGINA

Aegina, angina, bone china, Lucina, nandina, Regina, stone china

va·gi·na

noun \və-ˈjī-nə\   (Medical Dictionary)

plural ; va·gi·nae \-(ˌ)nē\ (audio pronunciation)or ; va·gi·nas

Medical Definition of VAGINA

: a canal in a female mammal that leads from the uterus to the external orifice opening into the vestibule between the labia minora

Illustration of VAGINA

vagina

noun    (Concise Encyclopedia)

Genital canal in females. Together with the cavity of the uterus, it forms the birth canal. In most virgins, its external opening is partially closed by a thin fold of tissue (hymen), which has various forms, not all of which significantly obstruct the opening. The vagina's lining thickens and thins during the menstrual cycle (see menstruation) in response to estrogen from the ovaries, being thickest and most elastic during ovulation and pregnancy. Its normally slightly acid environment discourages disease-causing microorganisms. Thick, elastic muscle walls accommodate movement of the penis during intercourse and passage of a child during delivery. A mucuslike fluid seeps through them for lubrication during sexual arousal. Vaginal disorders include bacterial and fungal infections (e.g., sexually transmitted diseases, candida), vaginitis, sores (see ulcer), and prolapse.