Cervix: meaning, definitions and examples

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cervix

 

[ˈsɜːrvɪks ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

anatomy

The narrow passage forming the lower end of the uterus. It is also known as the neck of the uterus.

Synonyms

cervical canal, neck of the uterus.

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Word Description / Examples
cervix

This term is used in medical and anatomical contexts to refer to the lower part of the uterus that opens into the vagina.

  • The doctor explained that the cancer was located in the cervix.
  • During childbirth, the cervix dilates to allow the baby to pass through.
neck of the uterus

This is a more informal and descriptive term, less commonly used in professional medical contexts. It is often utilized in explanations to non-specialists.

  • The neck of the uterus is another way to refer to the cervix.
  • The neck of the uterus must open during labor.
cervical canal

This term is often used in medical and technical discussions to describe the passageway through the cervix that connects the uterus and the vagina.

  • The cervical canal is checked during a Pap smear to screen for abnormalities.
  • A blockage in the cervical canal can impact fertility.

Examples of usage

  • The cervix dilates during childbirth.
  • A Pap smear is used to detect abnormalities in the cervix.
  • She felt a sharp pain in her cervix.

Interesting Facts

Anatomy

  • The cervix separates the uterus and vagina, playing a crucial role in childbirth by expanding to allow a baby to pass through.
  • It's usually about 2-3 centimeters long and can change in size throughout a woman's menstrual cycle.

Health

  • Regular check-ups can help detect changes in the cervix early, preventing issues like cervical cancer.
  • Vaccinations are available to protect against the virus that can cause changes in the cervix and lead to cancer.

Etymology

  • The word 'cervix' comes from Latin, meaning 'neck', highlighting its role as the neck of the uterus.
  • It has been used in scientific texts since the 16th century to describe this anatomical structure.

Cultural Perspectives

  • In various cultures, discussions about the cervix and reproductive health can be taboo, which affects awareness and education.
  • Art and literature occasionally use the cervix as a symbol of femininity and the complexities of childbirth.

Science

  • Research continues to uncover the cervical microbiome, which plays a role in reproductive health.
  • The cervix can also contribute to the process of menstruation, as it aids in the flow of menstrual fluid from the uterus.

Translations

Translations of the word "cervix" in other languages:

🇵🇹 colo do útero

🇮🇳 गर्भाशय ग्रीवा

🇩🇪 Gebärmutterhals

🇮🇩 leher rahim

🇺🇦 шийка матки

🇵🇱 szyjka macicy

🇯🇵 子宮頸部

🇫🇷 col de l'utérus

🇪🇸 cuello del útero

🇹🇷 rahim ağzı

🇰🇷 자궁경부

🇸🇦 عنق الرحم

🇨🇿 děložní hrdlo

🇸🇰 krček maternice

🇨🇳 子宫颈

🇸🇮 maternični vrat

🇮🇸 legháls

🇰🇿 жатыр мойны

🇬🇪 საშვილოსნოს ყელი

🇦🇿 uşaqlıq boynu

🇲🇽 cuello del útero

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,866, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.