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.
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).