Alveola is a word that is not commonly used in everyday language, but it has a specific meaning in biology and anatomy. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of alveola, its origin, synonyms, antonyms, and associations.
Definitions
Alveola is a plural form of alveolus, which is a small cavity or sac in the body. In anatomy, it refers to the small air sacs in the lungs where gas exchange occurs. In dentistry, alveola refers to the socket in the jawbone where the roots of teeth are anchored.
Origin
The word alveola comes from the Latin word “alveolus,” which means “a small cavity or hollow.” It was first used in the English language in the mid-17th century.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, alveola is defined as “a small cavity or hollow.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “a small sac or cavity, especially one of the air cells in the lungs.”
Associations
Alveola is primarily associated with anatomy and biology. It is a crucial part of the respiratory system, where oxygen and carbon dioxide are exchanged. In dentistry, alveola is associated with tooth extraction and oral surgery.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of alveola include air sac, cavity, sacculus, and alveolus.
Antonyms
There are no direct antonyms for alveola, but some related words that have opposite meanings include solid, continuous, and whole.
The same root words
Alveola shares the same root word as alveolus, which means “a small cavity or sac.” Other words that share this root include alveolate, which means “having many small cavities or cells,” and alveoliform, which means “shaped like an alveolus.”
Example Sentences
- The alveola in the lungs are responsible for gas exchange.
- After tooth extraction, the dentist will clean the alveola to prevent infection.
- The alveolate structure of a sponge allows it to filter water efficiently.