axilla

[ ak-sil-uh ]

noun

, plural ax·il·lae [ak-, sil, -ee].

1. Anatomy. the armpit.
2. Ornithology. the corresponding region under the wing of a bird.
3. Botany. an axil.

axilla

/ ækˈsɪlə /

noun

1. the technical name for the armpit
2. the area on the undersurface of a bird's wing corresponding to the armpit

Word History and Origins

Origin of axilla¹

Borrowed into English from Latin around 1610–20

Word History and Origins

Origin of axilla¹

C17: from Latin: armpit

Example Sentences

According to the group, a more recent study found higher levels of one paraben, n-propylparaben, in the axilla quadrant of the breast where the highest proportion of breast tumors is found.

From Scientific American

This means that most women will not need to have a second surgery to the axilla after a cancerous node has been found.

From BBC

Of or pertaining to the axilla or armpit; as, axillary gland, artery, nerve.

From Project Gutenberg

In this country it is generally introduced into the axilla, and less frequently into the mouth, for the purpose of making an observation.

From Project Gutenberg

Mrs. D., aged thirty-six, prolonged suppuration due to abscess of the axilla; nine months' standing.

From Project Gutenberg