noun
- The pair of posterior openings of the nasal cavity that lead into the nasopharynx; the internal nostrils.
Usage: anatomy; plural form; singular is choana; technical/medical term
Examples
- The choanae are located at the back of the nasal cavity.
- Air passes through the choanae into the nasopharynx during breathing.
- In anatomy class, students learned to identify the choanae on a skull model.
- The choanae connect the nasal passages to the throat.
- Obstruction of the choanae can affect normal airflow.