Piriform facts for kids

Piriform, sometimes spelled pyriform, is a word that means "pear-shaped". It comes from two Latin words: pirum, which means "pear", and forma, which means "shape". So, anything that looks like a pear can be called piriform!

Piriform in Your Body

You might be surprised to learn that many parts of your body have a piriform, or pear-like, shape. Scientists use this word to describe these parts.

Nose Opening

• The piriform aperture is the opening in your skull where your nose begins. It's often called the anterior nasal aperture. Think of it as the pear-shaped doorway for your nose.

Brain Region

• The piriform cortex is a small area in your brain. It's part of the system that helps you smell things. This part of the brain is important for processing scents.

Hip Muscle

• The piriformis muscle is a muscle located deep in your buttock area, near your hip joint. It helps you rotate your leg outwards. It's named for its pear-like shape.

Throat Area

• The piriform sinus (also called piriform recess or piriform fossa) is a small, pear-shaped pocket in your throat. It's part of the hypopharynx, which is the lower part of your throat. This area helps guide food and liquids when you swallow.

Other Pear-Shaped Things

The word piriform isn't just used for body parts!

Teapot Shapes

• In the 18th century, a special teapot shape was created that looked like a pear. This style of teapot became known as a pyriform teapot. It was a popular design for serving tea.