Phallus

Pronunciation: /FAL-us/

Category: Anatomy

Singular: Phallus

Plural: Phalli

Definition

An external or internal reproductive organ in male insects, especially within certain groups such as flies and beetles, used for transferring sperm to the female during copulation.

Etymology

From Greek 'phallus', meaning 'penis'.

Example

The phallus of a male fly is used to transfer sperm to the female during mating.

Related Terms

Intromittent organ
Aedeagus
Genitalia

Usage Notes

The term 'phallus' is often used in scientific contexts and may be unfamiliar to general audiences.