hypopharynx
(hɪpəʊ-, haɪpəʊˈfærɪŋks)
[a. F. hypopharynx, f. hypo- 2 + pharynx.]
1. Entom. A median projection from the internal surface of the lower lip in insects.
| 1826 Kirby & Sp. Entomol. III. 458 This cushion, I suppose, may be analogous to the ‘hypopharynx’ of M. Savigny. 1888 Rolleston & Jackson Anim. Life 499 The oral surface of the base of the labium also bears an internal process or hypopharynx. |
2. Anat. The lower, laryngeal part of the pharynx (into which the larynx opens), extending from the epiglottis to the top of the œsophagus.
| 1907 Lancet 25 May 1421/1, I propose to give a description of a new and excellent method of inspecting the laryngeal part of the pharynx, the hypopharynx as it is also called. 1954 W. H. Hollinshead Anat. for Surgeons I. viii. 405/2 The laryngeal pharynx or hypopharynx extends from just above the level of the hyoid bone superiorly to the cricoid cartilage inferiorly, narrowing rapidly to become continuous with the esophagus. 1962 Lancet 28 Apr. 901/2 The patients were placed in the lateral head-down position owing to bleeding from the hypopharynx. |