Pronunciation: /ælˈviːələs/

Definitions of alveolus

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

Example Sentences

A1 An alveolus is a small air sac in the lungs where oxygen and carbon dioxide are exchanged.

A2 The alveolus is a crucial part of the respiratory system, allowing for efficient gas exchange.

B1 Damage to the alveolus can result in difficulty breathing and decreased lung function.

B2 The alveolus is lined with a thin layer of cells that facilitate the exchange of gases.

C1 Researchers are studying ways to regenerate damaged alveoli in patients with respiratory diseases.

C2 The intricate network of alveoli in the lungs ensures that oxygen is efficiently absorbed into the bloodstream.

Examples of alveolus in a Sentence

formal The alveolus is the tiny air sac in the lungs where gas exchange takes place.

informal When you breathe in, air goes into the alveolus in your lungs.

slang I heard that smoking can damage your alveolus and cause breathing problems.

figurative The company is like an alveolus, constantly exchanging ideas and information to stay alive.

Grammatical Forms of alveolus

plural

alveoli

comparative

more alveolar

superlative

most alveolar

present tense

alveolates

future tense

will alveolate

perfect tense

has alveolated

continuous tense

is alveolating

singular

alveolus

positive degree

alveolar

infinitive

to alveolate

gerund

alveolating

participle

alveolated

Origin and Evolution of alveolus

First Known Use: 1601 year
Language of Origin: Latin
Story behind the word: The word 'alveolus' originated from Latin, derived from the word 'alveus' meaning 'a hollow place or cavity'.
Evolution of the word: Originally used in anatomy to refer to small cavities or sockets, the word 'alveolus' has evolved to also be used in botany to describe small cavities or sacs in plant structures.