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Vesicle Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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vesicle

[ˈvɛsɪk(ə)l ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

biology

A small fluid-filled sac in the body, such as those that transport substances within cells or store secretions.

Synonyms

bladder, pouch, sac.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
vesicle

Commonly used in medical and biological fields to describe a small fluid-filled sac within the body or cells.

  • The doctor discovered a vesicle on the patient's liver.
  • Under the microscope, the scientist observed multiple vesicles inside the cell.
sac

Typically refers to a sack-like structure in biology and medicine that can contain fluid, air, or other substances.

  • The surgeon noted a large sac filled with fluid during the operation.
  • The air sac in birds' lungs helps them to breathe efficiently.
bladder

Primarily refers to the organ in the body that stores urine. Can also be used to describe similar storage structures in animals or plants.

  • She needed surgery because her bladder was not functioning properly.
  • Fish have a swim bladder that helps them maintain buoyancy.
pouch

Often used to describe a small, flexible container or a natural pocket-like structure in animals. Informal and not specific to a scientific context.

  • The kangaroo carries its young in a pouch.
  • He stored his tools in a leather pouch.

Examples of usage

  • The vesicles in a cell help to transport nutrients and waste products.
  • The release of neurotransmitters is facilitated by synaptic vesicles.
Context #2 | Noun

geology

A small cavity or blister within a rock, often containing liquid or gas.

Synonyms

bubble, cavity, chamber.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
vesicle

Scientific or medical contexts, particularly relating to small fluid-filled sacs within the body or cells.

  • The researchers observed a vesicle within the cell under the microscope
  • Vesicles play a crucial role in cellular transport
cavity

Medical or dental contexts to refer to a hollow space within the body or a decayed part of a tooth. Can also refer to any hollow space in other fields.

  • The dentist found a cavity in my tooth that needs to be filled
  • The X-ray revealed a cavity in the bone
bubble

Everyday language to describe a small pocket of air or gas in a liquid or substance; often associated with play or casual settings.

  • The child blew soap bubbles in the backyard
  • A bubble formed on the surface of the boiling water
chamber

Describes a large, often enclosed space within a structure or organism. Also used in formal or grand settings, like in architecture or government.

  • The heart has four chambers
  • The treasure was hidden in an ancient underground chamber

Examples of usage

  • The vesicles in the volcanic rock indicated the presence of trapped gases.
  • The geologist studied the vesicles in the lava flow to understand the volcanic activity.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In biology, vesicles are essential for transporting molecules such as proteins and lipids within and outside of cells.
  • They are involved in processes like exocytosis, where cells expel materials, and endocytosis, where cells intake substances.
  • Some vesicles function as storage units for neurotransmitters, playing a critical role in how nerve cells communicate.

Health

  • Certain types of vesicles, like exosomes, are taking center stage in medical research for their role in cell communication and potential in drug delivery.
  • In pathology, vesicles can be indicators of diseases, such as blisters on the skin caused by viral infections.
  • Understanding vesicles is crucial for developing treatments for conditions like cystic fibrosis, where vesicular transport is affected.

Technology

  • Scientists are developing synthetic vesicles for drug delivery systems, mimicking natural processes for more efficient treatments.
  • Nanotechnology employs vesicle-like structures to enhance the delivery of therapeutic agents at the cellular level.
  • Nanovesicles are currently being researched for their potential in cancer therapy to target tumor cells specifically.

Literature

  • In poetry and metaphor, vesicles can symbolize containers of thought, emotions, or memories, embodying the idea of carrying important information.
  • Works exploring cellular structures often use vesicles as a metaphor for exploration and discovery within the often unseen world of biology.
  • The concept of vesicles can be found in both scientific texts and creative writing, illustrating the connection between science and the arts.

Origin of 'vesicle'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'vesicula,' meaning 'small bladder' or 'sac,' which refers to its shape and function.
  • It is linked to 'vesica,' which also means 'bladder' in Latin, hinting at its role in holding liquids.
  • The term has been used in scientific literature since the 19th century, reflecting the growth of cell biology.

The word 'vesicle' has its origins in Latin, where 'vesicula' meant a small bag or bladder. The term has been used in various scientific fields to refer to small sacs or cavities, indicating a common theme of containment or storage.

See also: vesicles.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,478, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.