sphincter

noun

sphinc·​ter ˈsfiŋ(k)-tər 

: an annular muscle surrounding and able to contract or close a bodily opening

sphincteric

sfiŋ(k)-ˈter-ik 

adjective

Examples of sphincter in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Causes and Risk Factors Many different factors can weaken the esophageal sphincter. —Amber J. Tresca, Verywell Health, 7 Apr. 2025

Other times, they were described as being DVD cleaners, though prevailing evidence suggests their main selling point is their ability to temporarily relax the sphincter muscle. —Jacob Bernstein, New York Times, 27 Mar. 2025

But, the techniques, like actually tightening your anal sphincter muscle, does affect your heart response. —Chris O'Falt, IndieWire, 15 Mar. 2025

Ginger can ease stomach pressure by reducing gas and bloating, which might otherwise cause the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) to open. —Lauren O'Connor, Ms, Health, 10 Feb. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Late Latin, from Greek sphinktēr, literally, band, from sphingein to bind tight

First Known Use

1578, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

sphincter

noun

sphinc·​ter ˈsfiŋ(k)-tər 

: a ringlike muscle surrounding a body opening that is able to make the opening smaller or close it

Medical Definition

sphincter

noun

sphinc·​ter ˈsfiŋ(k)-tər 

: an annular muscle surrounding and able to contract or close a bodily opening see anal sphincter, cardiac sphincter, precapillary sphincter, pyloric sphincter

sphincteral

-t(ə-)rəl 

adjective