Pronunciation: [fˈɔːsɪz] (IPA) 
Fauces is a Latin word that refers to the upper part of the throat. Spelling of this word can be tricky due to silent letters and a dipthong. The IPA transcription for fauces is [ˈfɔk.es]. The "au" in fauces is pronounced as a diphthong [ɔk]. The "c" in fauces is silent, so it is not pronounced. Fauces is a unique word with a complex spelling, so it requires proper attention to ensure proper pronunciation in conversation.
The term "fauces" refers to a specific anatomical structure within the human body. It is derived from the Latin word "faux," meaning "throat" or "jaws." In human anatomy, the fauces refers to the narrow opening or passage between the back of the mouth and the throat.
Located at the back of the oral cavity, the fauces form a gateway between the oral cavity and the oropharynx. It is delimited by two structures known as the palatoglossal arches, which are the folds of tissue connecting the soft palate to the base of the tongue, and the palatopharyngeal arches, which are the folds of tissue connecting the soft palate to the lateral walls of the throat.
The fauces play a vital role in swallowing and the movement of food or liquid from the mouth to the digestive system. During swallowing, the muscles surrounding the fauces contract, allowing the opening to close off and prevent food or liquid from entering the nasal cavity. This process helps to direct the substances from the mouth through the throat and into the esophagus.
Moreover, the fauces also have a functional significance in speech production. It serves as a resonating chamber for certain speech sounds, especially those produced at the back of the oral cavity or throat, such as certain consonants and vowel sounds.
In summary, the fauces are a crucial anatomical component of the human oral cavity that act as a gateway between the mouth and the throat for the passage of food, liquid, and air during swallowing, breathing, and speech production.
The space between the cavity of the mouth and the pharynx.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The upper part of the throat from the root of the tongue to the entrance of the gullet; in bot., the gaping part of certain flowers.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "fauces" comes from Latin and its etymology can be traced back to the Proto-Indo-European root *bʰeh₂uǵ-, meaning "to speak". In Latin, the term "fauces" includes several related meanings such as "throat", "passage", or "entrance". It is often used in the context of anatomy to refer to the narrow opening at the back of the mouth, leading to the pharynx and the rest of the digestive system.
