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Definition of sphincter

sphincter

/ˈsfɪŋk.tɚ/
sphinc · ter
Plural:sphincters
•
Adjective:sphincteric
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sphincter Lexical Profile

sphincter Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A ring-shaped muscle that surrounds and is able to contract or close a bodily opening or passage, regulating the flow of substances through it.

Example

"The lower esophageal sphincter prevents stomach acid from flowing back up into the esophagus."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for sphincter
Antonyms
View all antonyms for sphincter

Word Nuance & Usage

Although medically referring to any ring-like muscle in the body—such as those in the stomach or the iris of the eye—in informal, everyday speech the word is often used exclusively in reference to the anal sphincter.

• Rhymes for sphincter

• Nearby Words

sphericalness
spheroid
sphex
sphincter
sphinx
sphinxlike
spic

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the late 16th century via Late Latin from Ancient Greek 'sphinktēr' (a band or lace, anything that binds tight), derived from the verb 'sphingein' meaning 'to bind tight' or 'to squeeze'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Sphincter. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/sphincter
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