ventilator
ventilator Lexical Profile
ventilator Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A specialized medical machine that supports or completely takes over the breathing process for a patient who is physically unable to breathe adequately on their own.
"Due to severe respiratory failure, the patient was sedated and placed on a ventilator in the intensive care unit."
A mechanical appliance, opening, or duct system designed to introduce fresh air or expel stale air and fumes from a room, building, or confined space.
"The factory installed a large industrial ventilator on the roof to clear out toxic welding fumes from the workshop."
Word Nuance & Usage
In contemporary English, 'ventilator' is overwhelmingly associated with medical life-support machines, though it traditionally refers to any mechanical fan or duct system used to circulate air in buildings.
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Derived in the 17th century from Latin 'ventilator' (a winnower), from the verb 'ventilare' (to blow, fan, or toss in the air), which traces back to 'ventus' (wind).
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.