DIAPHRAGM

diaphragm|diaphram. Diaphragm, or Diaphram, n. the midriff, a muscular substance which separates the parts of the stomach from the abdomen

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Di″a‐phragm (?), n. [[L. diaphragma, Gr. �, fr. � to fence by a partition wall; διά through + �, �, to fence, inclose; prob. akin to L. fareire to stuff: cf. F. diaphragme. See Farce.]] 1. 1. A dividing membrane or thin partition, commonly with an opening through it.
2. 2. (Anat.) The muscular and tendinous partition separating the cavity of the chest from that of the abdomen; the midriff.
3. 3. (Zoöl.) A calcareous plate which divides the cavity of certain shells into two parts.
4. 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. 5. (Mach.) A partition in any compartment, for various purposes.
Diaphragm pump, one in which a flexible diaphragm takes the place of a piston.