Meaning & Definition of word "Cavity"
to
Cavity
/ˈkæv.ɪ.ti/
noun:
- 1. A hollow space or an empty area within a solid object.
- Example: The dentist found a cavity in my tooth that needed to be filled.
- 2. An anatomical hollow or space in a structure, often in living organisms.
- Example: The thoracic cavity houses the heart and lungs.
- 3. A natural or formed hollow or recess in the earth or a geological formation.
- Example: The cave had a large cavity that echoed when we spoke.
Etymology
From Middle English cavitie, from Latin cavitas, from cavus meaning 'hollow'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
cavity in the tooth:
Refers specifically to a decay or hole in a tooth requiring dental treatment.
abdominal cavity:
The space within the abdomen that contains the intestines, stomach, and liver.
cavity search:
A thorough search usually conducted by law enforcement, often including a search of the body.
Related Words
cavern:
A large, deep cave.
tubercle:
A small rounded projection or protuberance, often on a bone.
depression:
A sunken area or hollow.
Slang Meanings of cavity
Meaning: Cavity as a term for a hole or a significant empty space.
Example Sentence: That old car has a real cavity where the trunk used to be.