Ducts Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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ducts
[dสkts ]
Definitions
air conditioning
Ducts are channels or pipes that carry air throughout a building for heating, ventilation, or air conditioning purposes. They help to distribute and circulate air efficiently.
Synonyms
channels, pipes, ventilation shafts.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| ducts |
As mentioned previously, 'ducts' are commonly used in HVAC systems and biological contexts.
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| pipes |
Generally used to describe tubular structures for transporting fluids like water, gas, or oil. Frequently used in plumbing and industrial contexts.
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| channels |
Used in a broader sense to describe pathways for various mediums, including water, communication signals, and even efforts or processes. More abstract than 'ducts' or 'pipes'.
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| ventilation shafts |
Specifically used to describe vertical or horizontal openings in buildings designed to allow airflow. Often found in larger structures like high-rises or industrial buildings.
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Examples of usage
- The ducts in our office building need to be cleaned regularly to maintain good air quality.
- If there is a blockage in the ducts, the air conditioning system may not work properly.
biology
In biology, ducts refer to a passage or tube in the body that carries fluids such as blood, bile, or saliva. These ducts are essential for the proper functioning of various organs.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| passage |
A more general term that can describe any passageway or corridor, whether in a building, biological system, or other contexts.
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| tube |
Commonly used in everyday language to describe a hollow cylindrical object; also used in a medical context for devices inserted into the body.
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| canal |
Typically used in geography to describe man-made waterways used for transportation or irrigation, or in anatomy for specific body canals.
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Examples of usage
- The bile duct transports bile from the liver to the small intestine.
- The tear ducts help to drain tears from the eyes.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Architecture
- In modern buildings, ducts are crucial for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, often called HVAC.
- Ductwork is usually hidden within walls or ceilings, but it plays a vital role in air quality and comfort.
Biology
- In the human body, ducts function to transport substances; for example, the bile duct carries bile from the liver to the gallbladder.
- Salivary glands have ducts that convey saliva into the mouth, essential for digestion.
Engineering
- Ducts in various applications, like aerospace, help manage airflow and prevent turbulence in aircraft design.
- In the field of electrical engineering, ducts are used to house cables safely, referred to as cable ducts.
Environmental Science
- Ducts in natural ecosystems, such as rivers or streams, facilitate the flow of water and nutrients vital for wildlife.
- In urban planning, stormwater drainage ducts are essential for managing water runoff and preventing flooding.
Origin of 'ducts'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'duct' comes from the Latin word 'ductus', meaning 'leading' or 'to lead'.
- It entered English in the late 14th century, primarily used in architectural and medical contexts.
The word 'ducts' originated from the Latin word 'ductus', which means 'a leading'. It has been used in English since the 15th century to refer to channels or passages for various purposes.
See also: ductile.