Epiglottis

[,epɪ'glɒtɪs] or [,ɛpɪ'ɡlɑtɪs]

(noun.) a flap of cartilage that covers the windpipe while swallowing.

Checker: Natalia--From WordNet

(n.) A cartilaginous lidlike appendage which closes the glottis while food or drink is passing while food or drink is passing through the pharynx.

Typed by Jared

n. the cartilage at the root of the tongue that partly closes the aperture of the larynx.—adj. Epiglott′ic.

Inputed by Harlow