epiglottis – a flap of cartilage that covers the opening of the windpipe

(Pronounced eh-pih-glot-is)

To remember the meaning of epiglottis, use the following mnemonic:

To stay in the air, the pig put in a lot of force, and his (epiglottis) wings flap as hard as they can. 

The epiglottis is a flap of cartilage located at the back of the throat, just above the larynx (voice box). Its primary function is to act as a protective lid that prevents food and liquids from entering the trachea (windpipe) when you swallow. During normal breathing, the epiglottis remains upright, allowing air to flow freely into the lungs through the trachea. However, when you swallow, the epiglottis automatically folds down to cover the opening of the larynx, directing food and drink down the oesophagus instead. This reflex action is crucial for preventing choking and ensuring that substances only enter the digestive system rather than the respiratory system. If food accidentally enters the trachea, it triggers a coughing reflex to expel it.