1. Plural of epiglottis; the small cartilaginous flaps that cover the entrance to the larynx during swallowing to prevent food from entering the airway.
Usage: Anatomical term; Medical/scientific context

Examples

• The epiglottides protect the vocal cords from food and liquid during swallowing.
• Damage to the epiglottides can affect a person's ability to swallow safely.
• During an endoscopy, the doctor examined the patient's epiglottides.
• The epiglottides reflex is an important protective mechanism in the throat.