cervix

noun

cer·​vix ˈsər-viks 

plural cervices ˈsər-və-ˌsēz 

(ˌ)sər-ˈvī-(ˌ)sēz

or cervixes

1

: neck

especially : the back part of the neck

2

: a constricted portion of an organ or part

especially : the narrow outer end of the uterus

Examples of cervix in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

If someone's cervix is tightly closed, having the IUD inserter go through will be more painful. —Alyssa Goldberg, USA TODAY, 24 Oct. 2024

The tissue softens and becomes thinner, allowing the cervix to widen. —Jessica Migala, Health, 26 May 2024

Polyps are also benign growths, and they can be found in the uterus or on the top of the cervix. —Wendy Wisner, Health, 13 Sep. 2024

Location of the placenta: When the placenta is low and covers all or part of the cervix, it’s called placenta previa. —Donna Murray, Rn, Parents, 25 July 2024

Word History

Etymology

Latin cervic-, cervix

First Known Use

1694, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Kids Definition

cervix

noun

cer·​vix ˈsər-viks 

plural cervices ˈsər-və-ˌsēz  or cervixes

: the narrow outer end of the uterus that opens into the cavity of the vagina

Medical Definition

cervix

noun

cer·​vix ˈsər-viks 

plural cervices -və-ˌsēz, ˌsər-ˈvī-(ˌ)sēz  or cervixes

1

: neck sense 1a

especially : the back part of the neck

2

: a constricted portion of an organ or part: as

a

: the narrow lower or outer end of the uterus

b

: the constricted cementoenamel junction on a tooth