sphincter

noun

sphinc·​ter ˈsfiŋ(k)-tər 

: an annular muscle surrounding and able to contract or close a bodily opening

sphincteric

sfiŋ(k)-ˈter-ik 

adjective

Examples of sphincter in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

For certain underlying health conditions, such as IBS, IBD, or nerve damage, a healthcare provider may suggest certain prescription medications or surgical procedures to repair sphincter muscles.20 How To Prevent Sharts Sometimes, sharts can't be prevented. —Cristina Mutchler, Health, 6 Oct. 2024

Avoid straining on the toilet: Straining can lead to nerve damage and weaken sphincter muscles. —Cristina Mutchler, Health, 6 Oct. 2024

And about 36 percent of participants experienced what’s known as autonomic syndrome, which can impact multiple body systems and was defined by the study as urinary or fecal incontinence resulting from a loss of sphincter control. —Lisa Rapaport, EverydayHealth.com, 25 Sep. 2024

In reflux, the lower esophageal sphincter isn't closing properly, so acid backs up from the stomach into the esophagus (food tube). —Amber J. Tresca, Verywell Health, 25 Sep. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Late Latin, from Greek sphinktēr, literally, band, from sphingein to bind tight

First Known Use

1578, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

sphincter

noun

sphinc·​ter ˈsfiŋ(k)-tər 

: a ringlike muscle surrounding a body opening that is able to make the opening smaller or close it

Medical Definition

sphincter

noun

sphinc·​ter ˈsfiŋ(k)-tər 

: an annular muscle surrounding and able to contract or close a bodily opening see anal sphincter, cardiac sphincter, precapillary sphincter, pyloric sphincter

sphincteral

-t(ə-)rəl 

adjective