SEMICIRCULAR CANAL Meaning and
Definition
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A semicircular canal refers to any of the three fluid-filled, curved passages located in the inner ear that are responsible for detecting changes in head position and rotational movements. These canals are vital components of the vestibular system, which plays a crucial role in maintaining balance and equilibrium. Each semicircular canal is oriented in a different plane relative to the other two, allowing for the detection of movements in various directions.
The canals are arranged orthogonally to one another and are named based on their location: anterior, posterior, and horizontal (or lateral). Each semicircular canal consists of a swollen region known as the ampulla, which contains sensory hair cells, cupula, and a gel-like substance called endolymph. When the head rotates, the endolymph within the semicircular canals moves, causing the cupula to deflect and stimulate the hair cells in the ampulla.
These hair cells convert the mechanical movement into electrical signals that are transmitted to the brain via the vestibulocochlear nerve. The brain then processes this information to determine the direction and speed of the head movement, enabling the body to make appropriate adjustments to maintain balance. Dysfunction of the semicircular canals can result in vertigo, dizziness, and problems with coordination.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for SEMICIRCULAR CANAL
- aemicircular canal
- zemicircular canal
- xemicircular canal
- demicircular canal
- eemicircular canal
- wemicircular canal
- swmicircular canal
- ssmicircular canal
- sdmicircular canal
- srmicircular canal
- s4micircular canal
- s3micircular canal
- senicircular canal
- sekicircular canal
- sejicircular canal
- semucircular canal
- semjcircular canal
- semkcircular canal
- semocircular canal
Etymology of SEMICIRCULAR CANAL
The word "semicircular canal" derives from Latin and Greek roots.
The term "circular" comes from the Latin word "circulus", meaning "circle". It refers to the rounded shape of the canals.
The word "canal" comes from the Latin word "canalis", meaning "tube" or "channel". It describes the anatomical structure, which is like a hollow tube or channel.
The prefix "semi-" comes from the Latin word "semis", meaning "half" or "partially". In this context, it indicates that the canals are not complete circles but instead are partially circular.
Overall, the etymology of the word "semicircular canal" reflects the anatomical shape and structure of these canals within the ear.
Similar spelling word for SEMICIRCULAR CANAL
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