blowhole

• Nom désignant principalement l'orifice nasal situé sur le dessus de la tête des cétacés (baleines, dauphins), utilisé pour respirer ; par extension, il peut aussi désigner une ouverture ou un évent permettant l'échappement de gaz ou d'air.

A noun with two primary meanings: first, the spiracle or nostril opening located on the top of the head of cetaceans such as whales and dolphins, used for breathing; second, a hole or vent designed for the escape of gas or air.

1. Cetacean SpiracleB2formalscientific

   The nostril opening on the top of the head of whales, dolphins, and porpoises, used for breathing and expelling water vapor.

   Évent des cétacés

   • The whale surfaced and shot a plume of water from its blowhole.
   • Dolphins have a single blowhole on top of their heads.
   • Scientists study the blowhole to analyze the health of cetaceans.

   Synonymesnostrilspiracle

2. Gas or Air VentB2formaltechnical

   An opening or hole designed to allow gas, air, or steam to escape from a confined space.

   Évent

   • The volcano's blowhole released steam and gases into the atmosphere.
   • Engineers installed a blowhole in the pipeline to prevent pressure buildup.
   • The cave had a natural blowhole that emitted a cool breeze.

   Synonymesair holebreatherexhaustoutletvent