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- An alternate name for the Greek god Hymenaios
- A vaginal membrane present in human females, which completely or partially occludes the vaginal opening. The term comes from a Greek word meaning "membrane". Because sexual activity would usually puncture this membrane, its presence has been considered a guarantor of virginity in societies that place a high value on female chastity before marriage. Nonetheless, the hymen is often lost during childhood in the course of normal physical activities.
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