1. A muscular flap that closes off the nasopharynx during swallowing or speaking
   "The velum helps prevent food from entering the nasal cavity while swallowing";
   - soft palate
    
2. A membranous covering attached to the immature fruiting body of certain mushrooms
   "The mushroom's velum tore as the cap expanded";
   - veil

Derived forms: vela

Type of: flap, plant part, plant structure

Part of: palate, roof of the mouth

Encyclopedia: Velum