uvula Meaning & Definition
/ˈjuː.vjʊl.ə/
What Does Uvula Mean?
Uvula is used as a noun meaning The fleshy appendage that hangs from the back of the palate, that closes the nasopharynx during swallowing. It is also used to mean The slight elevation in the mucous membrane immediately behind the internal urethral orifice of the urinary bladder, caused by the middle lobe of the prostate.
Uvula at a Glance
| Part of speech | noun |
|---|---|
| Pronunciation | /ˈjuː.vjʊl.ə/ |
| Syllables | 3 |
| Synonyms | palatine uvula, staphyle and tonsils |
| Plural | uvulae |
Uvula Definition (Noun)
- The fleshy appendage that hangs from the back of the palate, that closes the nasopharynx during swallowing.
- The slight elevation in the mucous membrane immediately behind the internal urethral orifice of the urinary bladder, caused by the middle lobe of the prostate.
- An object so suspended inside a bell that it may hit the bell and cause it to ring; a clapper.
Synonyms of Uvula
Uvula synonyms and antonyms →Word Forms & Grammar
uvula (plural uvulae or uvulas or (archaic) uvulæ)
Origin of Uvula
Borrowed from Late Latin ūvula, diminutive of ūva (“grape”).
Uvula Pronunciation
You say uvula as /ˈjuː.vjʊl.ə/. It has 3 syllables, with the main stress on the first syllable (juː).
Frequently Asked Questions About Uvula
What part of speech is uvula?
Uvula is a noun.
What is another word for uvula?
You can replace uvula with words such as palatine uvula, staphyle and tonsils. See the full list of uvula synonyms and antonyms.
What is the plural of uvula?
The plural of uvula is uvulae.