tonsils
|ton-sils|
B2
🇺🇸
/ˈtɑːn.səlz/
🇬🇧
/ˈtɒn.səlz/
(tonsil)
lymphoid tissue
Etymology
Etymology Information
'tonsil' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'tonsillae', where 'tonsilla' meant 'almond-shaped mass'.
Historical Evolution
'tonsillae' transformed into the Old French word 'tonsilles', and eventually became the modern English word 'tonsil' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'almond-shaped mass', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a pair of soft tissue masses in the throat'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a pair of soft tissue masses located at the rear of the throat (pharynx).
The doctor examined her tonsils for signs of infection.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/05/13 05:34