Search Dictionary
Definition of hypopharynx
hypopharynx
/ˌhaɪ.poʊˈfær.ɪŋks/
hy · po · phar · ynx
Plural:hypopharynges
•Adjective:hypopharyngeal
hypopharynx Lexical Profile
CEFR
C2
Grade
12
Tier
3
Usage
Rare
hypopharynx Game Scores & Validity
Scrabble US
Scrabble UK
WWF
Wordle Guess
• noun
1
The lowest part of the pharynx (throat) that leads to the esophagus and larynx, located directly below the oropharynx.
Example
"The surgeon carefully examined the patient's hypopharynx to determine the cause of their difficulty in swallowing."
2
A tongue-like sensory lobe on the floor of the mouth in insects and some other arthropods, typically used to facilitate feeding.
Example
"In mosquitoes, the hypopharynx forms a tiny tube that delivers saliva into the host's tissue before feeding begins."
Synonyms
View all synonyms for hypopharynx• Rhymes for hypopharynx
Word Origin & Etymology
Coined in the late 19th century from the Greek prefix 'hypo-' (under) and 'pharynx' (throat), describing its anatomical position below the oropharynx.
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Hypopharynx. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 13, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/hypopharynx