General Anatomy · Sensory System · Hard

Cupula

Meaning: A gelatinous structure in the ampulla of each semicircular canal that bends with fluid movement.

In practice: Head rotation displaces it, deflecting hair cells and signalling angular acceleration.

Quick check

Two questions on related general anatomy words.

Which word means: A type of immune cell that engulfs and destroys pathogens.

Which word means: A soft mass of chewed food or a single dose of medication.

One medical word a day, then a quick three-question quiz. Free on iPhone, or play in your browser on Android and computer.