What is the tongue?
The the tongue is called the tongue (lingua). Gray's Anatomy (1918) describes it as a muscular organ made of two sets of muscles: intrinsic (which change its shape) and extrinsic (which move it in the mouth).
What it is
- A muscular organ made of two sets of muscles: intrinsic (which change its shape) and extrinsic (which move it in the mouth).
- Covered by mucous membrane containing the taste buds.
- Essential for tasting, chewing, swallowing, and speech.
Where it is
- On the floor of the mouth.
- Anchored to the hyoid bone and mandible.
- Its posterior third extends into the throat (oropharynx).
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Last verified: 2026-07-18
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