Sphincter

Pronunciation: /ˈsfɪŋktər/

Definitions of sphincter

noun a ring-like muscle that normally maintains constriction of a natural body passage or orifice and that relaxes as required by normal physiological functioning

Example Sentences

A1 The doctor explained that the sphincter is a muscle that helps control the flow of urine.

A2 After eating spicy food, some people may experience discomfort in their sphincter.

B1 The sphincter at the entrance of the stomach helps regulate the passage of food into the intestines.

B2 During childbirth, the sphincter muscles may relax to allow for the baby to pass through the birth canal.

C1 In cases of incontinence, the sphincter may not function properly, leading to leakage of urine or feces.

C2 The surgeon carefully repaired the sphincter to restore normal function and prevent further complications.

Examples of sphincter in a Sentence

formal The sphincter muscle plays a crucial role in controlling the release of waste from the body.

informal I heard that if you have a weak sphincter, you might have trouble holding in gas.

slang Dude, I think I strained my sphincter trying to lift that heavy box.

figurative His sphincter tightened with fear as he approached the edge of the cliff.

Grammatical Forms of sphincter

• plural: sphincters
• comparative: more sphincter
• superlative: most sphincter
• present tense: sphincters
• future tense: will sphincter
• perfect tense: has sphinctered
• continuous tense: is sphinctering
• singular: sphincter
• positive degree: sphincter
• infinitive: to sphincter
• gerund: sphinctering
• participle: sphinctered

Origin and Evolution of sphincter

First Known Use: 1601 year

Language of Origin: Greek

Story behind the word: The word 'sphincter' originated from the Greek word 'sphinkter' which means 'that which binds together'.

Evolution of the word: Originally used in reference to a circular muscle that constricts a passage or closes a natural opening in the body, the word 'sphincter' has retained its anatomical meaning but has also come to be used metaphorically in various contexts to describe something that tightens or restricts movement or flow.