vaginal

adjective

vag·​i·​nal ˈva-jə-nᵊl How to pronounce vaginal (audio)
1
: of, relating to, or affecting the genital vagina
2
: of or relating to a theca
vaginally
ˈva-jə-nᵊl-ē How to pronounce vaginal (audio)
adverb

Examples of vaginal in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The study animals also experienced vaginal hemorrhages and difficult labor — more than one-third died close to giving birth. — Sandee Lamotte, CNN Money, 7 Aug. 2026 These medications come in many different formulations, including transdermal patches, pills, and vaginal creams and rings. — Mara Gordon, NPR, 7 Aug. 2026 According to Polizzi, doctors also repaired her abdominal wall and performed a partial vaginal removal during the procedure. — Shayna Jacobs, NBC news, 1 Aug. 2026 Uncertainty notwithstanding, the longevity world has glommed onto the notion that the vaginal microbiome is some kind of exotic tealeaf that can be deciphered—and perfected by purchasing the right supplements. — Sarah Digregorio, Vanity Fair, 27 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for vaginal

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from New Latin vaginalis, from vagina "sheath, vagina" + Latin -ālis -al entry 1

First Known Use

1653, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of vaginal was in 1653

Rhymes for vaginal

See All Rhymes for vaginal

Browse Nearby Words

vagina
vaginal
vaginant
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Vaginal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/vaginal. Accessed 8 Aug. 2026.

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Medical Definition

vaginal

1 of 2 adjective
va·​gi·​nal
ˈvaj-ən-ᵊl, sometimes və-ˈjī-nᵊl
1
: of, relating to, or resembling a vagina : thecal
a vaginal synovial membrane surrounding a tendon
2
a
: of, relating to, or affecting the genital vagina
vaginal discharge
vaginal infection
b
: occurring through the birth canal
a vaginal delivery
a vaginal birth
vaginally
-ē How to pronounce vaginal (audio)
adverb

vaginal

2 of 2 noun
: a vaginal anatomical part (as a muscle)

More from Merriam-Webster on vaginal

Nglish: Translation of vaginal for Spanish Speakers

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