online medical dictionary | definition of hymen

1. A fabulous deity; according to some, the son of Apollo and Urania, according to others, of Bacchus and Venus. He was the god of marriage, and presided over nuptial solemnities. "Till Hymen brought his love-delighted hour, There dwelt no joy in Eden's rosy bower." (Campbell)

2. Marriage; union as if by marriage. "Hymen of element and race." (Emerson)

Origin: L, fr. Gr.

<anatomy> A fold of muscous membrane often found at the orifice of the vagina; the vaginal membrane.

Origin: Gr. Skin, membrane.

(01 Mar 1998)