Diaphragm

n.	1.	A dividing membrane or thin partition, commonly with an opening through it.
	2.	(Anat.) The muscular and tendinous partition separating the cavity of the chest from that of the abdomen; the midriff.
	3.	(Zool.) A calcareous plate which divides the cavity of certain shells into two parts.
	4.	(Opt.) A plate with an opening, which is generally circular, used in instruments to cut off marginal portions of a beam of light, as at the focus of a telescope.
	5.	(Mach.) A partition in any compartment, for various purposes. Diaphragm pump one in which a flexible diaphragm takes the place of a piston.

Noun	1.	diaphragm - a mechanical device in a camera that controls size of aperture of the lens; "the new cameras adjust the diaphragm automatically" Synonyms: stop
	2.	diaphragm - (anatomy) a muscular partition separating the abdominal and thoracic cavities; functions in respiration Synonyms: midriff
	3.	diaphragm - a contraceptive device consisting of a flexible dome-shaped cup made of rubber or plastic; it is filled with spermicide and fitted over the uterine cervix Synonyms: contraceptive diaphragm, pessary
	4.	diaphragm - electro-acoustic transducer that vibrates to receive or produce sound waves

Pronunciation: (DY-uh-fram)

The muscle wall between the chest and the abdomen. It is the major muscle that the body uses for breathing.

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