Epiglottis

(ep-e-glottis.) [From Gr. epi, and glottis, the orifice of the windpipe.] (Anat.) One of the cartilages of the larynx, at the root of the tongue; its use is to cover the glottis during the proce of deglutition,to prevent the substances being swallowed from entering the larynx and impeding the breath. [s. 335]