oesophagus

/ iːˈsɒfəɡəs; iːˌsɒfəˈdʒiːəl /

noun

1. the part of the alimentary canal between the pharynx and the stomach; gullet

Derived Forms

• oesophageal, adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of oesophagus¹

C16: via New Latin from Greek oisophagos, from oisein, future infinitive of pherein to carry + -phagos, from phagein to eat

Example Sentences

The report noted that a review of available evidence suggests snus use is associated with an increased risk of oesophagus and pancreatic cancer in comparison to non-smokers, and to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

From BBC

She now has cirrhosis of the liver and varices - enlarged blood vessels in the oesophagus that make swallowing hard.

From BBC

He was told he had cancer in his oesophagus, liver and spleen on 5 October.

From BBC

Elle was diagnosed with an allergic disorder of the oesophagus and prescribed a strict elimination diet but she said she "still felt awful".

From BBC

Oesophageal cancer is a cancer that's found anywhere in the oesophagus, sometimes called the gullet or food pipe, which connects your mouth to your stomach.

From BBC