Definition

A small chamber or cavity in the body, particularly in the heart or brain, that plays a role in circulation or fluid movement.

Example

The left ventricle pumps oxygen-rich blood to the rest of the body.

Conversation

Did you know that the heart has two ventricles?

Really? I thought it just had one big chamber.

Nope, one is for pumping blood to the lungs and the other is for the rest of the body.

That's interesting! I need to learn more about how the heart works.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Ventricle → It is formed from "ventriculus" (Latin, meaning small belly or cavity) and the diminutive suffix "-cle" (indicating smallness). The word "ventricle" refers to a small cavity or chamber, particularly in the heart or brain.

Memory Tip

Think of a small 'belly' or 'cavity' — that's what a ventricle is, a small chamber in the heart or brain.

Visually Confused Words