diaphragm
|di-a-fram|
/ˈdaɪəfræm/
separating membrane / partition
Etymology
'diaphragm' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'διάφραγμα' ('diaphragma'), where 'dia-' meant 'through' and 'phragma' meant 'a fence' or 'partition'.
'diaphragma' passed into Late Latin as 'diaphragma' and entered Middle English (via learned borrowings), eventually becoming the modern English word 'diaphragm'.
Initially it meant 'a partition' or 'barrier'; over time it came to be used for the anatomical muscular partition and, by extension, for thin membranes or plates in instruments and contraceptive devices.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
an anatomical, dome-shaped muscular partition separating the thoracic (chest) cavity from the abdominal cavity; it plays a major role in breathing.
The diaphragm contracts during inhalation, allowing the lungs to expand.
Synonyms
Noun 2
a thin membrane or flexible plate in instruments (such as microphones or speakers) that vibrates to produce or detect sound; also a thin, often adjustable, aperture/plate in optical devices (camera) that controls light.
The microphone's diaphragm is very sensitive to high frequencies.
Synonyms
Noun 3
a dome-shaped contraceptive device, usually made of rubber, inserted into the vagina to cover the cervix and prevent pregnancy.
She was fitted with a diaphragm as a form of birth control.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/12/03 11:41