epiglottis
UK[ˌep.ɪˈɡlɒt.ɪs]US[ˌep.əˈɡlɑː.t̬ɪs]
n
the thin, flexible flap of cartilage at the back of the tongue that covers the windpipe during swallowing to prevent food or liquid from entering the airway.
Morpheme Breakdown
epi
glottis
epi
upon
glottis
windpipe
Etymology
the term 'epiglottis' is a direct borrowing from modern latin, which itself was constructed from greek components. it is a compound of the greek prefix 'epi-', meaning "upon" or "over," and 'glōttis', which referred to the opening of the windpipe. the literal greek meaning, "upon the windpipe," provides a perfectly logical anatomical description. this structure sits over the entrance to the larynx, acting as a protective lid. the word's formation exemplifies the precision of greco-latin terminology in medical science, where the literal meaning of the parts remains transparently linked to the organ's form and function.
Analysis
Structure: epi (upon) + glottis (windpipe)
epi (greek origin, a prefix meaning "upon, over, near"). glottis (greek origin, from 'glōttis', meaning "windpipe" or "mouth of the windpipe").
Examples
the primary function of the epiglottis is to seal off the larynx during swallowing.
inflammation of the epiglottis, known as epiglottitis, is a serious medical condition.
the doctor used a laryngoscope to examine the patient's epiglottis.