vulva

[ vuhl-vuh ]

noun

, Anatomy.

, plural vul·vae [vuhl, -vee], vul·vas.

1. the external female genitalia.

vulva

/ ˈvʌlvə; ˈvʌlvɪˌfɔːm; ˈvʌlveɪt /

noun

1. the external genitals of human females, including the labia, mons veneris, clitoris, and the vaginal orifice

vulva

/ vŭl′və /

, Plural vulvas vŭl′vē′

1. The external genitals of female mammals, including the labia and clitoris.

vulva

1. The external organs of the female reproductive system .

Derived Forms

• vulviform, adjective
• ˈvulval, adjective

Other Words From

• vulval vulvar adjective
• vul·vi·form [vuhl, -v, uh, -fawrm], vul·vate [vuhl, -veyt, -vit], adjective
• non·vulval adjective
• non·vulvar adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of vulva¹

Borrowed into English from Latin around 1540–50

Word History and Origins

Origin of vulva¹

C16: from Latin: covering, womb, matrix

Example Sentences

"The vet who initially assessed Ariel noted that, in addition to her two surplus back legs, she also had an additional vulva," said the 42-year-old.

From BBC

Instead, the male serotine bats use their penises to push aside the protective tail membrane of the female members in order to reach their vulva.

From Salon

"The fear of the vulva is present in mythology, where it is depicted devouring man. I don't know if this fear has changed."

From Salon

“When Mr. Reid complained and became visibly irritated with her lack of compliance, Ms. Dixon froze. Mr. Reid again digitally penetrated Ms. Dixon’s vulva without her consent.”

From Los Angeles Times

About two dozen arms poke out of the portholes of a flying saucer cloaked in a crustacean shell and topped with a vulva.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• genitalia