Meaning & Definition of word "Sinus"

Sinus

/ˈsaɪ.nəs/

noun:

  • 1. A cavity or recess, especially in the bones of the skull or the tissues of the body, often filled with air or fluid.
    • Example: The maxillary sinus is located in the cheek area and is one of the largest sinus cavities.
  • 2. Any of the paired cavities within the bones of the face and skull that are connected to the nasal cavity.
    • Example: Sinus infections often occur when the nasal passages become blocked, leading to inflammation of the sinus cavities.
  • 3. A channel or groove that carries blood in the heart or other organs.
    • Example: The venous sinus collects blood from the brain and drains it into the internal jugular vein.
  • 4. A fold or recess in the tissue of an organ.
    • Example: The sinus of the heart allows blood to flow from the atria into the ventricles.
  • 5. A sinusoidal curve or a mathematical function related to sinusoidal waveforms.
    • Example: The sinus function in trigonometry is essential for understanding periodic phenomena.

Etymology

Latin 'sinus', meaning 'bay' or 'fold'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

sinus infection:

An infection that occurs in the sinus cavities, often causing pain and congestion.

maxillary sinus:

The largest of the paranasal sinuses, located in the maxillary bones.

frontal sinus:

A paired sinus located above the eyes within the frontal bone.

Related Words

sinusitis:

Inflammation of the sinus cavities.

sinogram:

A representation of the sinuses in X-ray imaging.

Slang Meanings of sinus