# lingual

/lˈɪŋɡwəl/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/lingual
Updated: 2026-05-28

## Definition

relating to the tongue or the use of language. You use this word when talking about the physical part of the body or how people speak.

For teachers: relating to the tongue or the faculty of language. Often used in anatomical contexts to describe the tongue or in linguistic contexts to describe language-specific features.

## Examples

- The doctor checked for any lingual injuries after the accident.
- The study focused on the lingual development of children who grow up in bilingual households.
- While the anatomical structure of the lingual muscles is well-documented, the cognitive processes that allow for rapid language switching remain a subject of intense research.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.