what does diaphragm mean
Medical Definition of Diaphragm (muscle) Diaphragm (muscle): The muscle that separates the chest (thoracic) cavity from the abdomen. The diaphragm is the main muscle of respiration. Contraction of the diaphragm muscle expands the lungs during inspiration when one is breathing air in. We rely heavily on the diaphragm for our respiratory function so that when the diaphragm is impaired, it can compromise our breathing.
diaphragm - (anatomy) a muscular partition separating the abdominal and thoracic cavities; functions in respiration. midriff. tissue layer, membrane - a pliable sheet of tissue that covers or lines or connects the organs or cells of animals or plants.