noun
- Plural of hypopharynx; the lower part of the pharynx (throat) located below the epiglottis and above the esophagus.
Usage: anatomy; medical term
Examples
- The hypopharynxes are lined with mucous membrane that helps protect the airway.
- During swallowing, food passes through the hypopharynxes on its way to the esophagus.
- The surgeon examined the patient's hypopharynxes using an endoscope.
- Tumors in the hypopharynxes can affect both breathing and swallowing.
- The hypopharynxes connect the larynx to the esophagus.