tonsil

/'tɔnsl/
Học thuật
Thân thiện
tonsil

A doctor uses a small light to examine a child's tonsils.

Definition
  1. Noun:
    • A mass of lymphatic tissue: Specifically, either of two such masses located on each side of the oral pharynx (the part of the throat behind the mouth). These tissues are part of the immune system.
Examples of Usage
  • Noun:
    • The doctor examined her throat and said her tonsils were swollen.
    • He had his tonsils removed when he was a child.
    • Tonsils can help trap bacteria and viruses that enter through the mouth.
Advanced Usage
  • "Tonsil of cerebellum": A less common anatomical term for a small lobe of the cerebellum. (Note: This is a specialized medical term distinct from the primary definition).
    • The MRI showed an issue near the tonsil of the cerebellum.
Variants and Related Words
  • Tonsillar (adj): Relating to or affecting the tonsils.
    • She had a tonsillar infection.
  • Tonsillectomy (n): The surgical operation to remove the tonsils.
    • The tonsillectomy was scheduled for next week.
  • Tonsillitis (n): Inflammation of the tonsils.
    • Strep throat often causes tonsillitis.
Synonyms
  • Palatine tonsil: The full anatomical name for the structure commonly called the "tonsil."
Related Phrases
  • "Kissing tonsils": An informal medical description for tonsils that are so enlarged they appear to touch each other.
    • The pediatrician noted the child had kissing tonsils.
Related Idioms
tonsil

A doctor uses a small light to examine a child's tonsils.

Noun
  1. either of two masses of lymphatic tissue one on each side of the oral pharynx