What is "palatine tonsil"

n. (context anatomy English) One of the two tonsils that can be seen on the left and right sides at the back of the throat.

n. either of two masses of lymphatic tissue one on each side of the oral pharynx [syn: tonsil, faucial tonsil, tonsilla]

Palatine tonsils, occasionally called the faucial tonsils, are the tonsils on the left and right sides at the back of the throat, which can often be seen as flesh-colored, pinkish lumps. Tonsils only present as "white lumps" if they are inflamed or infected with symptoms of exudates (pus drainage) and severe swelling.

Tonsillitis is an inflammation of the tonsils and will often, but not necessarily, cause a sore throat and fever. In chronic cases tonsillectomy may be indicated.