air sac

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Word: Air Sac

Part of Speech: Noun

Definition: An "air sac" is a special part of the body that holds air. In birds, air sacs are like small balloons inside their bodies that help them breathe. They are connected to the lungs and help the bird get enough oxygen when it breathes. In insects, air sacs are found in their breathing tubes and also help in breathing.

Usage Instructions:

• The term "air sac" is mostly used in scientific contexts, especially when talking about birds and insects.
• When using "air sac," it’s important to mention the type of animal you are referring to (e.g., "the air sac of a bird").

Example:

• "Birds have air sacs that allow them to breathe efficiently while flying, helping them get the oxygen they need."

Advanced Usage:

In advanced contexts, "air sac" can be discussed in relation to respiratory physiology or evolutionary biology, examining how animals have adapted their respiratory systems for different environments.

Word Variants:

• There are no direct variants of the word "air sac," but you can use related terms like:
  • Airway: The passage by which air enters and leaves the lungs.
  • Sac: A general term for a pouch or bag-like structure in the body.

Different Meanings:

• While "air sac" primarily refers to the structures in birds and insects, the word "sac" can also refer to other types of bags or pouches in biology (e.g., "amniotic sac" in mammals).

Synonyms:

• Inflatable sac: This is more descriptive and can refer to air-filled structures in general.
• Air chamber: This can also be used in contexts where air is stored, although it’s less specific.

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• There are no common idioms or phrasal verbs directly related to "air sac." However, you might use the phrase "full of hot air" to describe someone who talks a lot but doesn't say much of substance, which indirectly relates to the concept of air.

Summary:

An air sac is an important part of how some animals breathe. It is a balloon-like structure that holds air and helps in the breathing process.

Academic

Noun

1. any of the membranous air-filled extensions of the lungs of birds
2. any of the thin-walled extensions of the tracheae of insects
3. a tiny sac for holding air in the lungs; formed by the terminal dilation of tiny air passageways

Synonyms

• alveolus
• air cell