Ranula - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
A ranula is a fluid-filled cyst that forms under the tongue, typically caused by a blocked salivary gland. It appears as a soft, bluish swelling and may require medical treatment.
Definition:
A small cyst under the tongue caused by a blocked salivary gland.
Synonyms:
sublingual cyst, mucous cyst, salivary cyst
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
(No direct antonyms; context-dependent)
Common Collocations:
oral surgery, salivary gland, tongue swelling, dental condition, mucous retention
Derivatives:
ranular, ranulas
Usage Tips:
Use "ranula" in medical contexts to describe a specific type of oral cyst.
Common Phrases:
(No common phrases or idioms; technical term)
Etymology:
From Latin "rānula" (little frog), due to its resemblance to a frog's belly.
Examples:
- 1. The doctor diagnosed the swelling as a ranula.
- 2. A ranula can cause discomfort when speaking or eating.
- 3. Surgical removal is often needed for persistent ranulas.
- 4. The dentist explained how a ranula forms under the tongue.