vulva

noun

vul·​va ˈvəl-və 

plural vulvae ˈvəl-ˌvē  -ˌvī 

: the external parts of the female genital organs

vulval

ˈvəl-vəl 

adjective

or vulvar

ˈvəl-vər 

-ˌvär

Examples of vulva in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Your vulva also encompasses your mons pubis, the rounded area located in front of your pubic bones where hair typically grows. —Bruce Y. Lee, Forbes.com, 24 Aug. 2025

The collection includes a Glycolic Serum Wash, a hydrating Cleansing Oil, a vulva-safe Whole Body Wash and an Ultra Gentle Balm—all developed with OB/GYN and dermatologist expertise to address dryness, odor, sensitivity and odor shifts. —Adam Mills, MSNBC Newsweek, 20 Aug. 2025

Squirting Orgasm Though often used interchangeably, squirting and ejaculation for people with a vulva are different functions. —Heather Jones, Verywell Health, 11 Aug. 2025

You’re turned on When you’re aroused, blood rushes to your vulva. —Erika W. Smith, Refinery29, 7 Aug. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Medieval Latin, from Latin volva, vulva womb, female genitals; akin to Sanskrit ulva womb and perhaps to Latin volvere to roll — more at wallow entry 1

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

vulva

noun

vul·​va ˈvəl-və 

plural vulvae -ˌvē 

-ˌvī

: the parts of the female genital organs that are on the outside of the body

Medical Definition

vulva

noun

vul·​va ˈvəl-və 

plural vulvae -ˌvē  -ˌvī 

: the external parts of the female genital organs comprising the mons pubis, labia majora, labia minora, clitoris, vestibule of the vagina, bulb of the vestibule, and Bartholin's glands