Meaning of the word velum in English

What does velum mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

velum

US /ˈviː.ləm/
UK /ˈviː.ləm/

Noun

1.

the soft palate

Example:
The velum plays a crucial role in speech production, particularly for velar consonants.
When you swallow, the velum moves upward to prevent food from entering the nasal cavity.
2.

a membrane or membranous part, especially one that resembles a veil

Example:
The mushroom's partial velum protects the gills when young.
Some aquatic organisms have a ciliated velum for feeding and locomotion.