Alveolation

/ælˌviːəˈleɪʃən/ noun

Definition

The process of forming alveoli or small cavities; the state of having an alveolated or honeycomb-like structure.

Etymology

From Latin alveolatus + -ion (noun-forming suffix). Describes both the action of developing these structures and the resulting condition.

Kelly Says

During fetal development, alveolation in the lungs is one of the final and most critical stages—babies born before complete alveolation struggle to breathe because their air sacs aren't fully formed yet.

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