cavity

noun

cav·​i·​ty ˈka-və-tē 

plural cavities

1

: an unfilled space within a mass

especially : a hollowed-out space

2

: an area of decay in a tooth : caries

Synonyms

• concavity
• dent
• depression
• dint
• hole
• hollow
• indentation
• indenture
• pit
• recess

Examples of cavity in a Sentence

Some birds nest in tree cavities.

I had two cavities filled at the dentist's.

Recent Examples on the Web

The evolutionary immunologist, who works at the University of New Mexico, studies mucosal immune systems in fish to better understand how human versions of these systems, such as our intestinal lining and nasal cavity, work. —Quanta Magazine, 2 Dec. 2024

Elf owls typically nest in cavities, such as old woodpecker tree holes, that provide relief from heat and protection from rain and predators. —Leslie Katz, Forbes, 2 Dec. 2024

If community water fluoridation is ended in the U.S., the biggest and most immediate impact will be seen in an increase in dental cavities, especially among children. —Vanessa Etienne, People.com, 27 Nov. 2024

Check the cavity: Check the turkey's cavity for ice crystals; any remaining ice suggests the center is still partially frozen, requiring additional thawing time. —Katie Rosenhouse, Southern Living, 22 Nov. 2024

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Middle French & Late Latin; Middle French cavité, borrowed from Late Latin cavitāt-, cavitās, from Latin cavus "hollow, concave" + -itāt-, -itās -ity — more at hole entry 1

First Known Use

1541, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing cavity

• abdominal cavity
• body cavity
• pelvic cavity
• segmentation cavity
• spinal cavity
• thoracic cavity

Kids Definition

cavity

noun

cav·​i·​ty ˈkav-ət-ē 

plural cavities

1

: a hollow place

especially : an unfilled bodily space

lung cavity

2

: a hole hollowed out in a tooth by decay

Medical Definition

cavity

noun

cav·​i·​ty ˈkav-ət-ē 

plural cavities

1

: an unfilled space within a mass

2

: an area of decay in a tooth : caries