1. plural of ampulla; small bottle-shaped vessels or containers, especially those used in ancient times for oils or perfumes
Usage: archaeological; historical
2. enlarged portions of tubes or ducts in anatomy, such as those found in the inner ear or other body systems
Usage: medical; anatomical

Examples

• The archaeologists discovered several glass ampullae at the Roman site.
• Ancient ampullae were often used to store precious oils and perfumes.
• The museum’s collection includes beautifully decorated ceramic ampullae.
• The semicircular canals of the inner ear contain ampullae that detect rotational movement.
• Medical students learn about the ampullae in various organ systems.
• The ampullae found in the tomb suggested it belonged to a wealthy merchant.