saccule

/'sækju:l/

Thân thiện

The inner ear's saccule helps detect vertical head movements.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A small sac or pouch: A tiny, bag-like structure in the body.
   • Specifically, the smaller chamber of the membranous labyrinth: In anatomy, the "saccule" is the smaller of the two sacs (the other being the utricle) in the inner ear's vestibular system. It is filled with fluid and contains sensory cells that help detect linear acceleration and head position relative to gravity.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The saccule is an important part of the vestibular apparatus.
  • Within the inner ear, the saccule and utricle work together to provide balance information.

Advanced Usage

• "Saccular" (adjective): Relating to or shaped like a saccule or small sac.
  • The saccular macula is the sensory region inside the saccule.

Variants and Related Words

• Sacculus: Another term for "saccule," often used interchangeably.
• Utricle: The larger chamber of the membranous labyrinth, paired with the saccule.
• Vestibular system: The system in the inner ear responsible for balance, which includes the saccule.

Synonyms

• Sac: A general term for a pouch or bag-like structure.
• Pouch: A small bag or pocket.

Related Terms (Contextual)

• Macula: The specialized sensory area within the saccule that contains hair cells.
• Otolith: A tiny crystal of calcium carbonate in the saccule that moves with gravity, stimulating the hair cells.

Học thuật

Noun

1. a small sac or pouch (especially the smaller chamber of the membranous labyrinth)

Từ đồng nghĩa

• sacculus