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Meaning of diaphragm

Source language: EnglishDictionary language: English

diaphragm

Pronunciation:/ˈdaɪəˌfɹæm/

noun

Definitions

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

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

  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

Definitions

  1. To reduce lens aperture using an optical diaphragm.

  2. To act as a diaphragm, for example by vibrating.