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Diaphragm

/ˈdaɪəˌfɹæm/

In mammals, a sheet of muscle separating the thorax from the abdomen, contracted and relaxed in respiration to draw air into and expel air from the lungs; also called thoracic diaphragm.

📖 Definitions of "Diaphragm"

noun
  1. 1

    In mammals, a sheet of muscle separating the thorax from the abdomen, contracted and relaxed in respiration to draw air into and expel air from the lungs; also called thoracic diaphragm.

  2. 2

    Any of various membranes or sheets of muscle or ligament which separate one cavity from another.

  3. 3

    A contraceptive device consisting of a flexible cup, used to cover the cervix during intercourse.

  4. 4

    A flexible membrane separating two chambers and fixed around its periphery that distends into one or other chamber as the difference in the pressure in the chambers varies.

verb
  1. 1

    To reduce lens aperture using an optical diaphragm.

  2. 2

    To act as a diaphragm, for example by vibrating.

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