online vocabulary.com

Alveolar - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Alveolar refers to sounds produced by touching the tongue to the ridge behind the upper teeth, like 't' or 'd'. It also describes structures related to tooth sockets in anatomy.

alveolar

/ælˈviəlɚ/ /ælˈvɪələ/

Definition:

Relating to the alveoli, tiny air sacs in the lungs or sockets of teeth.

Synonyms:

dental, socketed, pulmonary, saclike

Part of Speech:

adjective

Antonyms:

non-alveolar, flat, smooth

Common Collocations:

alveolar ridge, alveolar bone, alveolar process, alveolar consonant

Derivatives:

alveolus, alveolate

Usage Tips:

Use "alveolar" to describe anatomical features like tooth sockets or lung sacs; often appears in medical or linguistic contexts.

Common Phrases:

alveolar sounds, alveolar arch, alveolar ventilation

Etymology:

From Latin "alveolus," meaning "small cavity" or "hollow," derived from "alveus" (trough).

Examples:

  • 1. The dentist examined her alveolar bone for signs of decay.
  • 2. Alveolar consonants like /t/ and /d/ are produced at the ridge behind the teeth.
  • 3. Smoking can damage the alveolar sacs in your lungs.
  • 4. The linguist explained how alveolar sounds differ from velar ones.
  • 5. His X-ray revealed an infection in the alveolar region of his jaw.

MORE VOCABULARY LISTS