syrinx

noun

syr·​inx ˈsir-iŋ(k)s How to pronounce syrinx (audio)
plural syringes sə-ˈriŋ-ˌgēz How to pronounce syrinx (audio)
-ˈrin-ˌjēz
or syrinxes
1
[Late Latin, from Greek] : panpipe
2
[New Latin, from Greek] : the vocal organ of birds that is a special modification of the lower part of the trachea or of the bronchi or of both

Word History

First Known Use

1606, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of syrinx was in 1606

Dictionary Entries Near syrinx

Cite this Entry

“Syrinx.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/syrinx. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

syrinx

noun
syr·​inx ˈsir-iŋks How to pronounce syrinx (audio)
: the sound-producing organ of birds

Medical Definition

syrinx

noun
syr·​inx ˈsir-iŋ(k)s How to pronounce syrinx (audio)
plural syringes sə-ˈriŋ-ˌgēz How to pronounce syrinx (audio) -ˈrin-ˌjēz How to pronounce syrinx (audio) or syrinxes
1
: the vocal organ of birds that is a special modification of the lower part of the trachea or of the bronchi or of both
2
: a pathological cavity in the brain or spinal cord especially in syringomyelia

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