1. a small sac or bladder-like structure in anatomy
Usage: medical; anatomical
2. either of two small fluid-filled sacs in the inner ear that help detect changes in head position
Usage: anatomical

Examples

• The utriculus contains sensory cells that detect linear acceleration.
• Damage to the utriculus can affect balance and spatial orientation.
• The otoliths in the utriculus move when the head tilts.
• Each inner ear contains one utriculus and one saccule.
• The utriculus is part of the vestibular system.
• Calcium carbonate crystals in the utriculus help sense gravity.