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

The inside of your butt is very sensitive, and cool water can cause cramping among your sphincter and abdominal muscles. —Matt Baume, Them, 30 Nov. 2024

That’s because straining yourself to push tightens the sphincters and puts extra pressure on the pelvic muscles and bladder, making urine hard to release. —Jocelyn Solis-Moreira, CNN, 26 Nov. 2024

There are two circular muscles at each end, which are called the upper and the lower esophageal sphincters. —Amber J. Tresca, Verywell Health, 25 Nov. 2024

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

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