noun
perineum
pe-ri-NEE-um
Perineum (noun) means the area of the body between the anus and the genitals, covering the floor of the pelvis. Example: “The midwife supported the perineum to reduce the risk of tearing.”
noun
1
The area of the body between the anus and the genitals, covering the floor of the pelvis.
"The midwife supported the perineum to reduce the risk of tearing."
"Cyclists sometimes get numbness from pressure on the perineum."
How to use perineum
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe skin between the private parts and the back passage.
When to use it
Anatomical and clinical; standard in medical, obstetric and fitness contexts.
Memory tip
Perineum and peritoneum are different: the peritoneum is the membrane lining the abdominal cavity. The adjective is perineal.
Trace the full origin ↓
Easily confused with
peritoneum →
perineurium
Common pairings
perineal tear
perineal massage
support the perineum
perineal repair
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The midwife supported the _____ to reduce the risk of tearing.
Etymology
From Greek perineon, from peri 'around' and inan 'to excrete'.
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Rhymes for perineum
See all rhymes for perineum →Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between the perineum and the peritoneum?
The perineum is the external region between the anus and the genitals. The peritoneum is a thin internal membrane that lines the abdominal cavity and wraps the organs inside it. The words look alike but refer to completely separate structures.
Why does the perineum matter in childbirth?
It stretches considerably as the baby's head is delivered, and it is where tears and episiotomies occur. Antenatal perineal massage and controlled delivery of the head are both used to reduce the chance of a severe tear.
What is the perineal raphe?
It is the visible ridge or line of tissue running along the perineum, marking where the two halves of the body fused during development. It is present in both sexes and is entirely normal.
What is the meaning of perineum?
"perineum" (noun) means the area of the body between the anus and the genitals, covering the floor of the pelvis.
