duct

word

/ˈdəkt/
/dˈʌkt/

Definition

A duct is a tube or channel that carries air, liquid, or other substances from one place to another, often used in buildings for ventilation or in the body for biological fluids.

Usage & Nuances

'Duct' is technical or semi-technical, used mostly in engineering (air ducts, heating ducts) or biology (tear duct, bile duct). It's rarely used in everyday speech but common in professional contexts. Different from 'pipe' (usually for water/gas) and 'tube' (more general).

Example Sentences

The doctor checked her tear duct.

basic

The air travels through the duct in the ceiling.

basic

Dust collects inside the heating duct.

basic

The repairman said there’s a leak in the main duct.

natural

If you hear rattling, it’s probably coming from the air duct.

natural

Some buildings have miles of duct work hidden behind the walls.

natural