The scientific name for the tongue is lingua (Latin) and glossa (Greek).
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
| Language | Scientific Name |
|---|---|
| Latin | lingua |
| Greek | glossa |
The tongue, in addition to being known as lingua or glossa, plays several critical roles in the human body. As highlighted in the provided reference, it functions as a digestive organ. Here are some of its key functions:
- Mastication: The tongue helps move food around in the mouth during chewing, facilitating the breakdown of larger particles.
- Swallowing: It assists in pushing the chewed food bolus toward the esophagus to start the swallowing process.
- Speech: The tongue is essential for articulating various sounds in speech.
- Taste: Taste buds located on the tongue allow us to perceive different flavors.
The tongue is composed primarily of striated muscle and is situated on the floor of the mouth. Its multi-faceted role underscores its importance in daily functions like eating and communication.
