NASOPHARYNX Meaning and
Definition
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The nasopharynx is a part of the respiratory system located behind the nasal cavity and superior to the oropharynx. It is the uppermost part of the throat and connects the nasal cavity to the rest of the pharynx. In terms of its anatomical location, the nasopharynx is situated right below the base of the skull.
The nasopharynx has numerous important functions in the body. Firstly, it serves as a passageway for air to move from the nasal cavity into the rest of the respiratory system. Additionally, the nasopharynx plays a crucial role in the process of speaking by facilitating the resonance of sound produced by the vocal cords.
The nasopharynx is lined with mucous membranes, which produce mucus to moisten and protect the tissues. Mucus also helps to trap and remove dust, particles, and microorganisms present in the inhaled air. This process helps to maintain healthy respiratory function and prevent potential infections.
The nasopharynx also contains a variety of adjacent structures, including the adenoids (pharyngeal tonsils) and the Eustachian tubes, which connect the middle ear to the nasopharynx. These structures contribute to the overall function of the nasopharynx, such as protecting against infections and maintaining a balance of pressure between the middle ear and atmospheric pressure.
In summary, the nasopharynx is the uppermost part of the throat, connecting the nasal cavity to the rest of the pharynx. It serves as a passageway for air, plays a role in vocal resonance, contributes to immune defense, and contains adjacent structures important for overall respiratory function.
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Rhinopharynx, the upper portion of the pharynx, above the level of the palate.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for NASOPHARYNX
- basopharynx
- masopharynx
- jasopharynx
- hasopharynx
- nzsopharynx
- nssopharynx
- nwsopharynx
- nqsopharynx
- naaopharynx
- nazopharynx
- naxopharynx
- nadopharynx
- naeopharynx
- nawopharynx
- nasipharynx
- naskpharynx
- naslpharynx
- nasppharynx
- nas0pharynx
Etymology of NASOPHARYNX
The word "nasopharynx" comes from the combination of three terms: "naso", "pharyn", and "x".
- "Naso" is derived from the Latin word "nasus", meaning "nose".
- "Pharyn" is derived from the Greek word "pharynx", which refers to the part of the throat behind the mouth and nasal cavity.
- The "x" at the end of "nasopharynx" is used to indicate that the word belongs to the anatomical term category.
Therefore, "nasopharynx" literally means "nose throat" or "nose pharynx", referring to the upper part of the throat that connects to the nasal cavity.
Similar spelling word for NASOPHARYNX
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