English UsageGrammar guide

Plural of Viscus

In anatomical usage, singular “viscus” has the classical plural “viscera.” The irregular number change makes this a substantive plural-form guide rather than a routine spelling transformation.

Quick answer

The plural of anatomical “viscus” is “viscera.” This is a classical irregular plural, so standard English does not form the ordinary anatomical plural by simply adding -s.

Key details

Confusion Familyclassical irregular plural
Rule Familynumber and classical plurals
Termsviscus, viscera
Variant ScopeAnatomical singular viscus takes plural viscera.

Further guidance

Core difference

Use “viscus” for one internal organ in the relevant anatomical sense and “viscera” for the plural.

Fast Test

When the intended meaning is multiple internal organs, “viscera” is the established plural form.

Usage Boundary

“Viscera” also appears collectively in ordinary language; specialist anatomical context should control the precise sense.

Sources and evidence

Sources are shown with the role they play in this guide. Historical or style-sensitive claims are kept within the evidence boundary described above.

  1. Viscus — Cambridge Dictionary (opens in a new tab)Cambridge University Press · Learner-dictionary evidence for the classical plural “viscera” of “viscus.”

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