diaphragm
diaphragm Lexical Profile
diaphragm Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A dome-shaped muscular and membranous partition separating the thoracic cavity from the abdominal cavity in mammals, playing a major role in breathing as its contraction increases the volume of the thorax and inflates the lungs.
"The vocal coach taught the choir members how to breathe deeply from the diaphragm to project their voices."
A thin, flexible disk or membrane in an acoustic, mechanical, or optical instrument that vibrates to produce or transmit sound waves, regulates fluid pressure, or controls the aperture of a lens.
"Sound waves striking the microphone cause its sensitive metal diaphragm to vibrate and generate an electrical signal."
A dome-shaped contraceptive cap made of thin rubber or silicone, designed to fit over the cervix to act as a physical barrier to sperm.
"The healthcare provider explained the proper fitting and effectiveness of a contraceptive diaphragm during the consultation."
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed via Late Latin from Ancient Greek diaphragma ('partition, barrier'), derived from diaphrassein ('to barricade'), combining dia- ('across') and phrassein ('to fence in or enclose').