Word parts
What it means
The bottom section of the pharynx (throat). It lies behind the larynx and leads down to two openings: the larynx in front, for air, and the esophagus behind, for food and fluids. When a person swallows, the epiglottis folds over the larynx so food goes into the esophagus.
At a glance
| Spanish | laringofaringe |
|---|---|
| Also written | hypopharynx |
Related terms
esophagus
The muscular tube that carries food and liquid from the throat to the stomach.
airway
The passages that carry air into and out of the lungs, from the nose and mouth to the smallest air tubes.
larynx
The voice box: the part of the airway in the neck, above the windpipe, that holds the vocal cords.
pharynx
The throat: the passage behind the nose and mouth that carries air to the voice box and food to the esophagus.