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Ventricle Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿซ€
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ventricle

[หˆvษ›ntrษชkษ™l ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

anatomy, heart

A ventricle refers to a hollow chamber in the heart or brain. In the context of the heart, it specifically denotes one of the two lower chambers that pump blood out of the heart. The left ventricle is responsible for pumping oxygenated blood to the body, while the right ventricle pumps deoxygenated blood to the lungs. Additionally, in the brain, ventricles are filled with cerebrospinal fluid and help cushion the brain.

Synonyms

cavity, chamber, compartment.

Examples of usage

  • The left ventricle is the strongest chamber of the heart.
  • Abnormal enlargement of the ventricles can indicate heart disease.
  • The brain ventricles produce cerebrospinal fluid.
  • Blood flows from the atria to the ventricles before being pumped out.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Anatomy

  • The heart has four chambers: two atria and two ventricles, with each ventricle responsible for pumping blood to different parts of the body.
  • The right ventricle pumps blood to the lungs, while the left ventricle sends oxygen-rich blood to the rest of the body.

Medicine

  • Enlargement of the ventricles can occur due to heart disease, which indicates strain on the heart muscle.
  • Certain heart conditions, like cardiomyopathy, can specifically affect how ventricles function, which impacts overall health.

Pop Culture

  • In popular media, the heart often symbolizes love and emotion, where the ventricles play a critical role in maintaining life and vitality.
  • Ventricles have been depicted in various artworks and literature as metaphors for emotional intensity, tying physical health to emotional experiences.

Science

  • In addition to their role in the circulatory system, ventricles are found in the brain, where they act as cavities that contain cerebrospinal fluid.
  • The concept of 'ventricular' activity extends beyond anatomy to discussions of various fluid dynamics, both in biological systems and engineering.

Origin of 'ventricle'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'ventricle' comes from the Latin word 'ventriculus,' which means 'little belly,' referring to its pouch-like shape.
  • The suffix '-cle' indicates a small or diminutive form, reflecting the chamber's compartment-like nature.

The term 'ventricle' originates from the Latin word 'ventriculus,โ€™ which is a diminutive form of โ€˜venter,โ€™ meaning 'belly' or 'stomach.' This etymology reflects the notion of a small chamber or cavity in the body, akin to a belly. The term was adopted in anatomical contexts in the early 16th century, evolving to describe various hollow parts within organisms. Over time, the usage expanded to include references to both the heart, particularly its chambers, and the fluid-filled cavities in the brain. Its application in medical and biological discussions reflects the critical roles these structures play in the physiology of an organism.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,178, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.