Definition

Noun: 1. A duct or channel for air to flow through: Specifically, a constructed passage designed to allow air to move, often for ventilation or breathing. This is common in contexts like mines, buildings, or aircraft. 2. The route or space through which air travels: This can refer to the anatomical airways in a body or any natural/conduit through which air moves.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The engineers installed a new air passage to improve ventilation in the deep section of the mine.
  • During the flight, cool air flowed from the air passage above each seat.
  • Inflammation can narrow the air passages in the lungs, making breathing difficult.

Advanced Usage

• "to clear the air passages": A phrase often used in medical or first-aid contexts, meaning to remove an obstruction so air can flow freely to the lungs.
  • The paramedic performed the Heimlich maneuver to clear the blocked air passage.

Variants and Related Words

• Airway (n): A very close synonym, often used interchangeably, especially in medical (e.g., "secure the patient's airway") and travel contexts (e.g., "a major airway" for flight paths).
• Ventilation shaft (n): A specific type of vertical air passage in a building or mine.
• Duct (n): A more general term for a tube or channel conveying fluid, air, cables, etc.

Synonyms

• Vent: An opening for air or gas to escape.
• Flue: A duct for smoke and waste gases, as in a chimney.
• Conduit: A channel for conveying fluids or protecting cables.

Related Phrases

• Respiratory tract: The anatomical system of air passages, including the nose, throat, and lungs.
• Ventilation system: The entire network of ducts and fans that circulates air in a structure.

Noun

1. a duct that provides ventilation (as in mines)