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Trachea: meaning, definitions and examples

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trachea

 

[ˈtreɪkiə ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

respiratory system

The trachea, also known as the windpipe, is a tube that connects the larynx to the bronchi of the lungs, allowing air to pass through for respiration.

Synonyms

throat tube, windpipe.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
trachea

Commonly used in medical or scientific contexts. Often mentioned in anatomy or physiology discussions.

  • The trachea is a vital part of the human respiratory system
  • The surgeon carefully examined the trachea for any signs of damage
windpipe

A more common term used in everyday language. Suitable for casual conversations and in contexts where a technical term is not necessary.

  • He got a piece of food stuck in his windpipe
  • Cats sometimes get furballs stuck in their windpipe
throat tube

Rarely used in everyday language. It might be used in informal contexts to describe the trachea, especially by those not familiar with medical terminology.

  • He felt something stuck in his throat tube
  • The doctor said the throat tube was clear

Examples of usage

  • The trachea is lined with ciliated epithelium to help trap and remove foreign particles.
  • Coughing is a reflex action that helps to clear any obstructions in the trachea.
  • The trachea is supported by rings of cartilage to prevent collapse during breathing.

Interesting Facts

Anatomy

  • It is about 4 to 5 inches long in adults and is made up of cartilage rings to keep it open.
  • The trachea splits into two smaller tubes called bronchi, which branch off to each lung.
  • It is lined with tiny hairs called cilia that trap dust and germs to keep the lungs clean.

Etymology

  • The word 'trachea' comes from the Greek word 'tracheia,' meaning 'rough,' reflecting its rough structure.
  • Historically, the term has been used since the 16th century in medical texts to describe the windpipe.

Medical Science

  • Tracheostomy is a surgical procedure where an opening is made in the trachea to assist breathing in emergencies.
  • In some diseases, like asthma or chronic bronchitis, the function of the trachea can be severely impaired.

Cultural References

  • In medical dramas, tracheotomy procedures are often depicted as emergency measures to save a patient’s life.
  • The trachea is crucial in performing CPR—rescuers need to ensure air can travel freely to the lungs.

Translations

Translations of the word "trachea" in other languages:

🇵🇹 traqueia

🇮🇳 श्वासनली

🇩🇪 Luftröhre

🇮🇩 trakea

🇺🇦 трахея

🇵🇱 tchawica

🇯🇵 気管

🇫🇷 trachée

🇪🇸 tráquea

🇹🇷 trakea

🇰🇷 기관

🇸🇦 قصبة هوائية

🇨🇿 průdušnice

🇸🇰 priedušnica

🇨🇳 气管

🇸🇮 sapnik

🇮🇸 barkakýli

🇰🇿 кеңірдек

🇬🇪 ტრაქეა

🇦🇿 nəfəs borusu

🇲🇽 tráquea

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,578, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.