ˈtän(t)sə̇l noun
( -s )
Etymology: Latin tonsillae (plural) tonsils
1.
a. : either of a pair of prominent masses of lymphoid tissue that lie one on each side of the throat between the anterior and posterior pillars of the fauces and are composed of lymph follicles grouped around one or more deep crypts and except for the exposed surface which is covered only by epithelium are surrounded by diffuse lymphoid tissue in a fibrous capsule
b. : any of various similar masses of lymphoid tissue — see pharyngeal tonsil
2. : amygdala 2