Homonym: Tongue (Language)
The tongue is a muscular organ located in the mouth, primarily responsible for tasting, swallowing, and speaking. It is covered with tiny bumps called papillae, which contain taste buds that help detect different flavors such as sweet, salty, sour, bitter, and umami. The tongue also plays a crucial role in the digestive process by helping to move food around the mouth and pushing it toward the throat for swallowing.
In addition to its functions in taste and digestion, the tongue is essential for articulation in speech. It works in coordination with other parts of the mouth, such as the lips and teeth, to produce sounds and form words. The tongue's flexibility and range of motion allow for a variety of vocalizations, making it a vital component of human communication.