Tracheae: meaning, definitions and examples
🌬️
tracheae
[ ˈtrɛkiˌiː ]
anatomy biology
Tracheae are the fine tubes of the tracheal system in insects and some arachnids, which deliver air directly to the tissues. In mammals, the term often refers to the trachea itself, the windpipe that connects the larynx to the bronchi, allowing air passage to the lungs. The structure features rings of cartilage that maintain its shape and prevent collapse during breathing. The tracheae facilitate respiration by allowing inhalation and exhalation of air, contributing significantly to the overall process of gas exchange in living organisms.
Synonyms
air passage, trachea, windpipe.
Examples of usage
- The tracheae in insects allow for efficient gas exchange.
- The trachea branches into smaller bronchi.
- In some species, tracheae can be highly specialized.
- Exposure to pollutants can damage the tracheae.
Translations
Translations of the word "tracheae" in other languages:
🇵🇹 traqueias
🇮🇳 श्वसन नलिकाएँ
🇩🇪 Tracheen
🇮🇩 trakea
🇺🇦 трахеї
🇵🇱 tchawice
🇯🇵 気管
🇫🇷 trachées
🇪🇸 traqueas
🇹🇷 trake
🇰🇷 기관
🇸🇦 قصبات
🇨🇿 průdušky
🇸🇰 priedušky
🇨🇳 气管
🇸🇮 sapnice
🇮🇸 rör
🇰🇿 трахеялар
🇬🇪 ტრაქეები
🇦🇿 trokhealar
🇲🇽 tráqueas
Etymology
The word 'tracheae' is derived from the Latin word 'trachea', which in turn comes from the Ancient Greek 'τραχεία' (tracheia), meaning 'rough' or 'irregular'. This etymology relates to the roughness of the internal lining of the trachea, as it is lined with a series of cartilaginous rings that support its structure. The word has been used in anatomical contexts since the early 19th century, particularly with advancements in understanding respiratory systems of various organisms. The concept of tracheae has evolved as science has advanced, leading to detailed studies in both human anatomy and the unique adaptations of respiratory systems in insects and other species.