Definition

A small, thin tube in the lungs that branches off from a larger airway called a bronchus, helping to carry air to the smallest parts of the lungs.

Example

The doctor explained that the bronchioles are important for delivering air to the alveoli.

Conversation

I read an article about how our lungs work.

Oh really? What did it say about the bronchiole?

It explained that the bronchiole helps transport air to the alveoli.

That's interesting! I didn't know they played such an important role.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Bronchiole → It is formed from "bronchus" (from Greek "bronkhion", meaning windpipe or bronchial tube) and the diminutive suffix "-ole" (meaning small). The word "bronchiole" refers to a small bronchial tube, a smaller branch of the bronchus.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'small bronchus' — 'bronchus' refers to the windpipe, and '-ole' indicates something small. This helps you remember that a bronchiole is a small airway in the lungs.

Visually Confused Words