perineum

Pronunciation: per'i-ne'um, -ne'a

Definition

1. Surface area between the thighs extending from the coccyx to the pubis that includes the anus posteriorly and the external genitalia anteriorly.
2. The compartment inferior to the pelvic diaphragm bounded peripherally by the osseofibrous structures comprising the pelvic outlet the surface of which is sense 1.
3. External surface of the central tendon of the perineum, lying between the vulva and the anus in the female and the scrotum and the anus in the male.

[L. fr. G. perineon, perinaion]