First Known Use: before 12th century
Dictionary
nostril
noun nos·tril \ˈnäs-trəl\
: one of the two openings of the nose
Full Definition of NOSTRIL
1
: either of the external nares; broadly : either of the nares with the adjoining passage on the same side of the septum
2
: either fleshy lateral wall of the nose
See nostril defined for English-language learners
See nostril defined for kids
ADVERTISEMENT
Origin of NOSTRIL
Middle English nosethirl, from Old English nosthyrl, from nosu nose + thyrel hole; akin to Old English thurh through
Rhymes with NOSTRIL
NOSTRIL Defined for Kids
nostril
noun nos·tril \ˈnä-strəl\
Definition of NOSTRIL for Kids
: either of the outer openings of the nose through which people and many animals breathe
Medical Dictionary
nostril
noun nos·tril \ˈnäs-trəl\
Medical Definition of NOSTRIL
1
: either of the external nares; broadly : either of the nares with the adjoining passage on the same side of the nasal septum
2
: either fleshy lateral wall of the nose
Illustration of NOSTRIL
Learn More About NOSTRIL
Browse
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up nostril? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).