Word forms: plural phalluses, plural phalli (fælaɪ)
1. countable noun
A phallus is a model of an erect penis, especially one used as a symbol in ancient religions.
2. countable noun
A phallus is a penis.
[technical]
phallus in British English
(ˈfæləs)
nounWord forms: plural-luses or -li (-laɪ)
1. another word for penis
2.
an image of the penis, esp as a religious symbol of reproductive power
Word origin
C17: via Late Latin from Greek phallos
phallus in American English
(ˈfæləs)
nounWord forms: pluralˈphalˌli (ˈfælˌaɪ) or ˈphalluses
1.
a representation or image of the penis as the reproductive organ, worshiped as a symbol of generative power, as in the Dionysiac festivals of ancient Greece
2. Anatomy
a.
the penis or clitoris
b.
the undifferentiated embryonic tissue that develops into the penis or clitoris
Word origin
L < Gr phallos < IE base *bhel-, to swell > L follis, leather sack, flare, to blow