Swallowing: meaning, definitions and examples
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swallowing
[ˈswɒləʊɪŋ ]
Definitions
medical
The action or process of swallowing.
Synonyms
gulp, ingestion, ingurgitation.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| swallowing |
Use this term to describe the general act of moving something from the mouth to the stomach. It is neutral and commonly used in both medical and everyday situations.
|
| ingestion |
This is a more technical or medical term that refers to the process of taking something into the body through the mouth. It is often used in scientific or healthcare settings.
|
| gulp |
This term often implies taking in something quickly and in large amounts. It can describe both drinking and eating, usually in an urgent or hurried manner.
|
| ingurgitation |
This is a very rarely used term and often has a negative connotation, implying excessive or voracious consumption. It can suggest gluttony or binge eating.
|
Examples of usage
- He had difficulty with swallowing after the surgery.
- She choked on her food due to swallowing too quickly.
animal behavior
The process of taking food or liquid into the body by the mouth.
Synonyms
consumption, devouring, ingestion.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| swallowing |
Repeated entry for emphasis: The mechanical process of moving something from the mouth into the stomach.
|
| consumption |
This is a broader term that can be used to describe the act of using up resources, but when related to food, it means eating or drinking. It often has a formal tone.
|
| ingestion |
This is a medical or scientific term used to describe the process of taking substances into the body through the mouth. It's often used in medical or formal contexts.
|
| devouring |
This word has a stronger, more intense connotation and means to eat something very quickly and eagerly, often in a way that shows hunger or greed.
|
Examples of usage
- The bird's swallowing of the fish was a fascinating sight.
- The frog's swallowing of the insect was quick and efficient.
general
To cause or allow (something) to pass down the throat.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| ingest |
Used in a more scientific or medical context to describe the act of taking a substance into the body by swallowing it. Formal and technical.
|
| gulp down |
Used when someone is drinking or eating something quickly, often in a hurry or with large mouthfuls. It has an informal tone.
|
| consume |
Used in a broader sense that includes eating, drinking, or using up resources. This word can be formal.
|
Examples of usage
- He was swallowing his pride and apologizing to her.
- She had a hard time swallowing the bitter truth.
Interesting Facts
Anatomy
- The process involves muscles in the throat that push food down into the stomach.
- There are three stages of swallowing: the oral phase (when you chew), the pharyngeal phase (when it goes down your throat), and the esophageal phase (when it moves to your stomach).
- Swallowing can be voluntary (like when you decided to gulp down a drink) or involuntary (it happens automatically while you breathe).
Cultural Practices
- In some cultures, the way food is swallowed or the sounds made can have social implications. For example, slurping noodles in Japan is seen as a compliment to the chef.
- Certain rituals or traditions involve swallowing items, like drinking from a communal cup in various cultural ceremonies that symbolize unity.
Psychology
- The act of swallowing can be affected by emotions; for example, some people find it harder to swallow when they are nervous or anxious.
- Childhood experiences, including how parents taught kids to eat and drink, can shape one's relationship with swallowing later in life.
Health
- Difficulty swallowing, known as dysphagia, can be a symptom of various health conditions, including neurological disorders and structural issues in the throat.
- Hydration and food consistency play significant roles in the ease of swallowing; certain textures are easier to manage.
Science
- Swallowing is a complex reflex that requires coordination of over 25 muscles and multiple cranial nerves.
- Research in swallowing mechanics has advanced significantly, improving treatments for those with swallowing difficulties.
Translations
Translations of the word "swallowing" in other languages:
🇵🇹 deglutição
🇮🇳 निगलना
🇩🇪 Schlucken
🇮🇩 menelan
🇺🇦 ковтання
🇵🇱 połykanie
🇯🇵 嚥下 (えんげ)
🇫🇷 déglutition
🇪🇸 deglución
🇹🇷 yutma
🇰🇷 삼키기
🇸🇦 ابتلاع
🇨🇿 polykání
🇸🇰 prehĺtanie
🇨🇳 吞咽 (tūn yàn)
🇸🇮 požiranje
🇮🇸 kyngja
🇰🇿 жұту
🇬🇪 გადაყლაპვა
🇦🇿 udma
🇲🇽 deglución