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Examples of axilla in a Sentence
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'axilla.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Word History
borrowed from Latin, diminutive of āla "armpit, upper arm, wing, axil" (axilla < *aksl̥-lā < *aksl-elā < *aksl- + *-el-, diminutive suffix) — more at ala
Note: Latin axilla is marginally attested in classical Latin, in a remark made by Cicero on its relation to āla ("fuga litterae vastioris" - "by the loss of an unwieldy letter"; Orator 153) and in a Greek glossary of Latin words. The usual Late Latin form is a metathesized ascilla or ascella, taken to mean "armpit," the sense "wing" being restricted to āla; from ascella descend Romance forms as Italian ascella "armpit," French aisselle.
1616, in the meaning defined above
Dictionary Entries Near axilla
Cite this Entry
“Axilla.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/axilla. Accessed 22 Aug. 2024.
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