cavity
n.-
1 a hollow space (n.) B2 Upper Intermediatea hollow space or empty area inside a solid object.
a hollow space or void within a solid object or structure.
ExampleThe explorers found a small cavity in the rock wall where they could hide from the rain.
ExampleEngineers discovered a structural cavity within the concrete foundation that required immediate reinforcement to prevent further settling.
- solid
- protrusion
-
2 in a tooth (n.) B2 Upper Intermediate Medicinea hole in a tooth caused by decay.
a lesion or hole in a tooth resulting from dental caries.
ExampleThe dentist told me I had a small cavity because I ate too many sweets.
ExampleRegular dental check-ups are essential for detecting a cavity before the decay reaches the sensitive nerve of the tooth.
UsageOften used with the verbs 'fill' or 'drill'.
- decay
- caries
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3 body space (n.) C1 Advanced Technical Medicinea space inside the body that holds organs.
a fluid-filled or air-filled space in an animal body that houses internal organs.
ExampleThe lungs are located inside the chest cavity.
ExampleThe surgeon carefully examined the abdominal cavity for any signs of internal bleeding following the accident.
UsageCommonly modified by anatomical adjectives like 'abdominal', 'thoracic', or 'nasal'.
Teacher's tipThis is a technical term used by doctors and scientists; in everyday conversation, people usually just name the body part.
From Middle French cavité or Late Latin cavitās, from cav(i) (“hollow, excavated, concave”) + -tās (“-ity”, nominal suffix). First attested in the Mid-16th c.