Langimage
English

ampulla

|am-pul-la|

C1

/æmˈpʊlə/

small flask or bulb

Etymology
Etymology Information

'ampulla' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'ampulla,' where 'am-' meant 'around' and 'pulla' meant 'small bottle.'

Historical Evolution

'ampulla' has remained largely unchanged from its Latin origins, retaining its form and meaning in modern English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'a small bottle or flask,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a small, flask-like container used in ancient Rome for holding liquids, especially oils or perfumes.

The ampulla was used to store sacred oils.

Synonyms

Noun 2

a dilated portion of a canal or duct, especially in the body, such as the ampulla of Vater in the digestive system.

The ampulla of Vater is an important structure in the digestive system.

Synonyms

Last updated: 2025/07/24 04:21