alveolus

[/ælˈviːələs/]
nounpl: alveoli
alvéolo
1. A small cavity or pit, particularly one of the tiny air sacs in the lungs where gas exchange occurs
Oxygen passes through the walls of each alveolus into the bloodstream.
O oxigênio passa através das paredes de cada alvéolo para a corrente sanguínea.
2. A small socket or cavity in bone, especially one that holds a tooth root
The tooth is firmly anchored in its alveolus within the jawbone.
O dente está firmemente ancorado em seu alvéolo dentro do osso da mandíbula.
3. A small depression or cavity in any anatomical structure
The honeycomb structure contains numerous small alveoli.
A estrutura em favo contém numerosos pequenos alvéolos.
This is a technical anatomical term used in medical, dental, and biological contexts in both Brazil and the United States. It is primarily encountered in educational, professional, and clinical settings rather than in everyday conversation.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
air saccavitysocketdepressionpit

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
alvéolo
standard medical terminology used in anatomy and dentistry
Rio de Janeiro
alvéolo
standard usage in medical and academic contexts
São Paulo
alvéolo
standard usage in medical and academic contexts
Portugal
alvéolo
identical to Brazilian Portuguese; used in medical terminology

Related Words

alveolaralveolitisalveolopathypulmonarydentalrespiration
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