Adenoid
/ˈæd.ə.nɔɪd/noun
A mass of lymphoid tissue behind the nose that can enlarge and obstruct breathing, especially in children.
Did you know?Despite its name, the adenoid is not a true gland: ancient Greek physicians named it for its resemblance to glandular tissue.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*h₁eh₂d-
“A reconstructed root associated with swelling or bodily tissue; its connection to Greek adēn is considered probable rather than certain.”
Ancient Greek
Greek
ἀδήν (adḗn)
“Gland; a bodily organ or swelling.”
Ancient Greek
Greek
ἀδενοειδής (adēnoeidḗs)
“Gland-like, formed from adḗn “gland” and -oeidḗs “resembling.””
19th Century
Medical English
adenoid
“Resembling a gland; used in anatomy for gland-like tissue.”
Modern English
English
adenoid
“The lymphoid mass behind the nasal cavity, or anything resembling glandular tissue.”