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esophagus

Esophagus (noun) – Meaning, Examples & Etymology

noun

IPA:

/ɪˈsɒf ə gəs/

What does esophagus mean?

A muscular tube in the human body that extends from the throat to the stomach.
"The esophagus is responsible for transporting food and liquids."

Detailed Meaning of Esophagus

The esophagus, also spelled oesophagus, is responsible for the transportation of food and liquids from the mouth to the stomach for further digestion. The esophagus is approximately 10-13 inches long and is made up of layers of smooth muscle tissue that contract and relax to move food along the digestive tract. The upper part of the esophagus is composed of skeletal muscle, while the lower part is made up of smooth muscle. The esophagus contains a ring of muscles at its lower end, called the lower esophageal sphincter, which opens and closes to allow food to pass into the stomach and prevent stomach acid from flowing back up into the esophagus. Disorders of the esophagus can lead to a variety of symptoms, such as difficulty swallowing, heartburn, and regurgitation.

Example Sentences for Esophagus

1. The esophagus is a muscular tube in the human body.
2. The esophagus extends from the throat to the stomach.
3. The esophagus is approximately 10-13 inches long.
4. The esophagus is made up of layers of smooth muscle tissue.
5. The upper part of the esophagus is composed of skeletal muscle.
6. The lower part of the esophagus is made up of smooth muscle.

Origin and Etymology of Esophagus

The noun 'esophagus' has a distinctive etymology rooted in ancient Greek. It originates from the Greek word 'oïsophagos,' which is a combination of two terms: 'oïs,' meaning 'food,' and 'phagein,' meaning 'to eat.' This etymology reflects the primary function of the esophagus, which is to transport food from the throat to the stomach, facilitating the process of eating and digestion. The word 'esophagus' has maintained its Greek origins, and its etymology aptly encapsulates its role in the human body's digestive system, emphasizing its connection to the consumption and passage of food.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the noun esophagus:

gullet

exterior

outside

surface

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Correct!

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More Usage Examples of Esophagus

1. The esophagus contains a ring of muscles at its lower end.
2. The ring of muscles is called the lower esophageal sphincter.
3. The lower esophageal sphincter opens and closes to allow food to pass into the stomach.
4. Disorders of the esophagus can lead to difficulty swallowing.
5. Disorders of the esophagus can also lead to heartburn and regurgitation.
6. The esophagus transports food from the mouth to the stomach.
7. Acid reflux can damage the lining of the esophagus.
8. A blockage in the esophagus can cause swallowing difficulties.
9. The surgeon removed a tumor from the patient's esophagus.
10. The esophagus contracts to push food downward during digestion.
11. Damage to the esophagus can lead to painful swallowing.
12. The esophagus is a crucial part of the digestive system.
13. A scope was used to examine the interior of the esophagus.
14. The esophagus ensures food reaches the stomach for digestion.
15. Swallowing involves the coordinated movement of the esophagus.
16. A barium swallow test can detect issues in the esophagus.
17. The esophagus is lined with specialized cells for protection.
18. Injuries to the esophagus may require surgical intervention.
19. The esophagus is vulnerable to irritation from stomach acid.
20. The esophagus contracts rhythmically to move food efficiently.
21. An endoscopy can reveal abnormalities in the esophagus.
22. Smoking is a risk factor for esophageal cancer.
23. The esophagus connects the throat and stomach.
24. Gastroesophageal reflux disease can damage the esophagus.
25. The narrowing of the esophagus can cause swallowing problems.