noun

der Scheideneingang, ¨-e

vaginal opening · vaginal entrance

Definition & meaning

The term refers to the external opening of the vagina. In medical and anatomical contexts, it is known as the vaginal introitus. It is the specific part of the female anatomy that serves as the entrance to the vaginal canal and is situated within the vulva, typically located between the labia minora. This area may be partially covered by the hymen in individuals who have not had sexual intercourse or specific physical activities.

Grammar & Word origin

The word is a compound noun consisting of two distinct German words:

Die Scheide: In a biological context, this means "vagina." Historically and in other contexts, it refers to a "sheath" or "scabbard" for a blade.
Der Eingang: This means "entrance," "entry," or "doorway." It is derived from the verb eingehen, meaning "to go in" or "to enter."

The noun is masculine (der). Its plural form is die Scheideneingänge.

Synonyms & antonyms

Synonyms:

Vaginalöffnung: A common term meaning vaginal opening.
Introitus vaginae: The Latin medical term frequently used in German clinical settings.
Ostium vaginae: Another formal medical designation for the opening.

Antonyms: While there is no direct semantic opposite, one can contrast the entrance with the internal endpoints of the vaginal canal:

Muttermund: The cervix or the "mouth of the womb," located at the opposite end of the vagina.
Scheidengewölbe: The vaginal vault, which is the internal top portion of the vagina surrounding the cervix.