sphincter

[ sfingk-ter ]

noun

, Anatomy.

1. a circular band of voluntary or involuntary muscle that encircles an orifice of the body or one of its hollow organs.

sphincter

/ ˈsfɪŋktə /

noun

1. anatomy a ring of muscle surrounding the opening of a hollow organ or body and contracting to close it

sphincter

/ sfĭngk′tər /

1. A ring-shaped muscle that encircles an opening or passage in the body. The opening and closing of the anus is controlled by contraction and relaxation of a sphincter, as is the opening that leads to the stomach from the esophagus.

Derived Forms

• ˈsphincteral, adjective

Other Words From

• sphincter·al sphinc·te·ri·al [sfingk-, teer, -ee-, uh, l], sphinc·ter·ic [sfingk-, ter, -ik], sphinc·ter·ate [sfingk, -ter-it, -t, uh, -reyt], adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of sphincter¹

1570–80; < Late Latin < Greek sphinktḗr, equivalent to sphing-, base of sphíngein to hold tight + -tēr suffix denoting agent

Word History and Origins

Origin of sphincter¹

C16: from Late Latin, from Greek sphinkter, from sphingein to grip tightly

Example Sentences

As for the cable anchors, their faces are the upper body equivalent of a failed sphincter nerve.

From The Daily Beast

Introduce the bulb of an ordinary clinical thermometer, well greased with vaseline, just within the sphincter ani.

From Project Gutenberg

This sphincter opens automatically only in connection with the act of swallowing.

From Project Gutenberg

Four or more sutures may be passed in this way, a final one bringing the cut ends of the sphincter ani together.

From Project Gutenberg

Cases in which the perineum is apparently intact, but in which the sphincter is not united (Figs. 35, 36).

From Project Gutenberg

If, however, the sphincter is intact and serviceable the fistula should be pared and the edges brought together by silk sutures.

From Project Gutenberg