Where is the axillary temperature taken?

Axillary temperature is taken in the armpit. The word “axillary” comes from “axilla,” the anatomical term for the hollow beneath the shoulder where the upper arm joins the torso.

To take this measurement, a digital thermometer is placed high in the center of the armpit, with the arm held firmly against the body. This helps keep the sensor in contact with the skin and prevents outside air from affecting the reading. The method is commonly used for babies, children, and adults.

An armpit reading is convenient and noninvasive, but it is generally less precise than a rectal, oral, ear, or temporal measurement. It can read roughly 0.5 to 1 degree Fahrenheit lower than core body temperature, so clinicians interpret it in context rather than treating it as a perfect substitute.

A common mix-up is confusing “axillary” with “auxiliary.” In medical language, axillary refers specifically to the armpit region, including the axillary artery, vein, nerves, and lymph nodes.