tonsil

noun

ton·​sil ˈtän(t)-səl How to pronounce tonsil (audio)
1
: either of a pair of prominent masses of lymphoid tissue that lie one on each side of the throat between two folds of soft tissue that bound the fauces
2
: any of various masses of lymphoid tissue (such as the adenoids) that are similar to tonsils
tonsillar adjective

Examples of tonsil in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Jones also accompanied the man to his daughter’s doctor appointment Monday, where the child was getting her tonsils out. Nicole Lopez, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 19 July 2024 Your doctor might suggest procedures like laser tonsil cryptolysis, which smooths the tonsil crypts to reduce stone formation. Jake Parks, Discover Magazine, 30 Oct. 2024 If tonsil stones are impacting your quality of life, Brown recommends seeing a physician to have a discussion about tonsil activity. Caroline C. Boyle, USA TODAY, 24 Oct. 2024 The tonsils are an integral part of the body’s immune function. Caroline C. Boyle, USA TODAY, 14 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for tonsil 

Word History

Etymology

Latin tonsillae, plural, tonsils

First Known Use

1601, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of tonsil was in 1601

Dictionary Entries Near tonsil

Cite this Entry

“Tonsil.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/tonsil. Accessed 26 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

tonsil

noun
ton·​sil ˈtän(t)-səl How to pronounce tonsil (audio)
: either of a pair of oval-shaped masses of spongy tissue that lie one on each side of the throat at the back of the mouth

Medical Definition

tonsil

noun
ton·​sil ˈtän(t)-səl How to pronounce tonsil (audio)
1
a
: either of a pair of prominent masses of lymphoid tissue that lie one on each side of the throat between the anterior and posterior pillars of the fauces and are composed of lymph follicles grouped around one or more deep crypts and except for the exposed surface which is covered only by epithelium are surrounded by diffuse lymphoid tissue in a fibrous capsule

called also palatine tonsil

2
: a rounded prominence situated medially on the lower surface of each lateral hemisphere of the cerebellum

More from Merriam-Webster on tonsil

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