noun a small cavity, pit, or hollow, in particular, a small air sac in the lungs where oxygen and carbon dioxide are exchanged during breathing
In anatomy, an alveolus refers to a small cavity, pit, or hollow, especially one in the lung where oxygen and carbon dioxide are exchanged during respiration.
In dentistry, an alveolus is the socket in the jawbone in which the root of a tooth is held.
In botany, an alveolus may refer to a small cavity or pocket in a plant structure, such as in the fruit of certain plants.
In biology, an alveolus can refer to small air sacs in the lungs where gas exchange occurs, or to small cavities in certain organisms such as sponges.
In zoology, an alveolus can refer to small cavities or sacs in various animal structures, such as the honeycomb-like structures in the lungs of some insects.
The term 'alveolus' may be used by writers specializing in medical or scientific topics when discussing the tiny air sacs in the lungs where gas exchange takes place.
Biologists may use 'alveolus' when describing the structure and function of the air sacs in the lungs during respiration.
Respiratory therapists commonly use 'alveolus' when explaining lung anatomy and the role of alveoli in gas exchange to patients.
Anatomists frequently refer to 'alveolus' when teaching about the microscopic structures of the lungs and their importance in respiration.