syrinx

/ˈsɪrɪŋks/
noun
  1. The vocal organ of birds, located at the base of the trachea, which produces sound.
    • Scientists studied the syrinx of a parrot to understand how it mimics human speech.
    • The nightingale's syrinx allows it to produce a wide range of beautiful notes.
    • Unlike mammals, birds use a syrinx instead of vocal cords to sing.
  2. A narrow, tube-like cavity or channel in the body, especially in certain invertebrates or in medical contexts.
    • An MRI revealed a small syrinx in the patient's cervical spine.
    • The doctor explained that a syrinx in the spinal cord can cause pain and weakness.
    • In some marine worms, the syrinx helps pump water through the body.
  3. A type of ancient Greek wind instrument, often made of reeds, similar to a panpipe.
    • Museums sometimes display a syrinx made from hollow reeds tied together.
    • In Greek mythology, the god Pan created the syrinx from reeds.
    • The shepherd played a simple melody on his syrinx while watching the flock.
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