cervix

noun

cer·​vix ˈsər-viks 

plural cervices ˈsər-və-ˌsēz 

(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

The second drug, misoprostol, taken 24 to 48 hours later, causes the uterus to contract and dilate the cervix, which will expel the embryo. —Arthur Jones Ii, ABC News, 14 Jan. 2026

This budget-friendly menstrual cup is perfect for people with a high cervix and comes free of any toxins, phthalates, latex or BPA. —Bestreviews, Mercury News, 7 Jan. 2026

The new guidance reflects the latest research showing that HPV tests, compared to Pap smears, can increase the detection of abnormal cells in the cervix that may lead to cancer. —Aria Bendix, NBC news, 5 Jan. 2026

The American Cancer Society recently released guidelines recommending self-testing for HPV, allowing people to collect a sample from their cervix themselves instead of having a doctor or nurse collect it. —Ciara McCarthy, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 30 Dec. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Latin cervic-, cervix

First Known Use

1694, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Kids Definition

cervix

noun

cer·​vix ˈsər-viks 

plural cervices ˈsər-və-ˌsēz  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 

plural cervices -və-ˌsēz, ˌsər-ˈvī-(ˌ)sēz  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