ventilation

noun

ven·​ti·​la·​tion ˌven-tə-ˈlā-shən 

1

: the act or process of ventilating

2

a

: circulation of air

a room with good ventilation

b(1)

: the circulation and exchange of gases in the lungs or gills that is basic to respiration

(2)

: artificial respiration of the lungs

specifically : mechanical ventilation

ventilation to supply oxygen to the patient's lungs

3

: a system or means of providing fresh air

Examples of ventilation in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

These areas often have awkward entrances and lack ventilation, which allows heat to build quickly. — Janet Loehrke, USA Today, 25 June 2026

Prefab kits and plug-in infrared units have brought entry prices lower than most people expect, though hidden costs like electrical upgrades and ventilation still catch buyers off guard. — Allison Palmer, Charlotte Observer, 24 June 2026

This lightweight pick has a breathable mesh outer for reliable ventilation, slim silhouette, and crucial stability and support to keep workouts and workdays on track—whether that means a roadside run, gym reps, or a 12-hour shift. — Annie Blackman, InStyle, 24 June 2026

The gap between a $1,500 plug-in setup and a $10,000 custom build is where buyers get lost, and hidden costs like electrical upgrades and ventilation work are what turn a $4,000 weekend project into a $9,000 renovation. — Allison Palmer, Sacbee.com, 24 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Latin ventilātiōn-, ventilātiō, from ventilāre "to expose to the air, ventilate" + -tiōn-, -tiō, suffix of action nouns

First Known Use

1664, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing ventilation

• artificial ventilation
• mechanical ventilation

Rhymes for ventilation

• abdication
• aberration
• abjuration
• abnegation
• abrogation
• acceptation
• acclamation
• acclimation
• accusation
• activation
• actuation
• acylation

Kids Definition

ventilation

noun

ven·​ti·​la·​tion ˌvent-ᵊl-ˈā-shən 

1

: the act or process of ventilating

2

: circulation of air

a room with good ventilation

3

: a system or means of providing fresh air

Medical Definition

ventilation

noun

ven·​ti·​la·​tion ˌvent-ᵊl-ˈā-shən 

1

: the circulation and exchange of gases in the lungs or gills that is basic to respiration

2

: artificial respiration of the lungs

specifically : mechanical ventilation

began ventilation to supply oxygen to the patient's lungs

3

: the circulation of air through a space and especially an enclosed space