cupula
9.9
A small dome-shaped part in the inner ear that helps you keep balance
- noun
- /ˈkjuːpjʊlə/
- Specialized
:
cúpula
- The influence of plates on convex parts of the palatal fornix and the presence of two zones with increased elastic properties of the bone tissue allows for a considerable increase in the efficiency of correcting the form of the cupula of the palate.
Examples
-
The resultant endolymphatic movement leads to deflection of the superior canal cupula away from the utricle (ampullofugal flow).
Academic text (2009) -
The doctor explained that the cupula plays a crucial role in our sense of motion and orientation.
-
The form of the cupula of the palate (its geometry) has been corrected.
Blog text (1) -
The cupula in the inner ear helps you maintain your balance by detecting head movements.
-
In the lungs, the cupula is located at the top of each lung and contributes to respiratory function.
Surface Forms
Etymology
Cupula comes from Latin parts cup- ('cup') and -ula ('small'), so it means 'little cup'. In the inner ear this tiny cup-like dome moves with your head, which is why the cupula helps with balance.
