TRACHEA Meaning and
Definition
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The trachea, commonly known as the windpipe, is an essential component of the respiratory system in humans and many other animals. It is a slender, tubular structure that connects the larynx (voice box) to the bronchi, which lead to the lungs. Functioning as a conduit for inhaled air, the trachea allows for the passage of oxygen from the external environment into the lungs and the expulsion of carbon dioxide during exhalation.
The trachea is constructed of rings of cartilage that provide structural support and protect the airway, ensuring it remains open and functional. These C-shaped cartilaginous rings are connected by fibrous tissues and smooth muscles, allowing flexibility and the ability to expand and contract during breathing.
The inner lining of the trachea is composed of ciliated epithelial cells, which possess small, hair-like projections called cilia that help to sweep mucus and foreign particles upwards, away from the lungs and towards the throat. This mechanism serves as a defense mechanism, preventing potential pollutants or irritants from reaching the sensitive lung tissue.
Any obstruction or damage to the trachea can significantly impair respiratory function and lead to breathing difficulties. Various medical conditions, such as tracheal stenosis (narrowing of the trachea), tracheal tumors, or infectious diseases, can affect the trachea's normal functioning, requiring medical intervention for proper diagnosis and treatment.
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Windpipe; the air-tube extending from the larynx, at the level of the disc between the 6th and 7th cervical vertebrae, to the giving off of the bronchi, at the level of the disc between the 4th and 5th thoracic vertebrae; this point is called the bifurcation of the trachea. The trachea is composed of from 16 to 20 cartilaginous rings, connected by a membrane, the annular ligament; posteriorly the rings are defective for 1/5 to 1/3 of their circumference, the interval, forming the membranous wall, being closed by a fibrous membrane containing unstriped muscular fibers.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for TRACHEA *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for TRACHEA
Etymology of TRACHEA
The word "trachea" has its roots in the Ancient Greek language. It is derived from the Greek word "trakhía", which means "rough artery" or "rough windpipe". This name was given due to the presence of cartilaginous rings that line the trachea, giving it a rough texture.
Similar spelling words for TRACHEA
- triga,
- Traci,
- Treasa,
- Tricia,
- trickey,
- treck,
- Tracey,
- trick,
- trash,
- triche,
- track,
- triage,
- Tracee,
- truck,
- Tresa,
- trochee,
- tracy,
- Trish,
- trice,
- trease,
- troche,
- truce,
- Tracie,
- trace,
- Truax.
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