vulva

noun

vul·​va ˈvəl-və 

plural vulvae ˈvəl-ˌvē  -ˌvī 

: the external parts of the female genital organs

vulval

ˈvəl-vəl 

adjective

or vulvar

ˈvəl-vər 

-ˌvär

Examples of vulva in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

For patients deemed female, excess flesh could be cut away, and for patients deemed male, the vulva could be cauterized to close it. —Sarah Barringer, The Conversation, 18 Feb. 2025

Vulvar dermatitis is inflammation of the vulva's skin. —Heidi Cope, Health, 24 Dec. 2024

While this pair is mostly made up of stretchy synthetic fabrics, its gusset is lined with cotton, which should feel soft and gentle against your vulva. —Sara Coughlin, SELF, 17 Feb. 2025

Vulva The vulva, part of the external female reproductive system, is outside the body. —Andrea L. Braden, Verywell Health, 14 Feb. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Medieval Latin, from Latin volva, vulva womb, female genitals; akin to Sanskrit ulva womb and perhaps to Latin volvere to roll — more at wallow entry 1

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

vulva

noun

vul·​va ˈvəl-və 

plural vulvae -ˌvē 

-ˌvī

: the parts of the female genital organs that are on the outside of the body

Medical Definition

vulva

noun

vul·​va ˈvəl-və 

plural vulvae -ˌvē  -ˌvī 

: the external parts of the female genital organs comprising the mons pubis, labia majora, labia minora, clitoris, vestibule of the vagina, bulb of the vestibule, and Bartholin's glands