ventilation Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun the act of supplying fresh air and getting rid of foul air
    airing.
  2. noun a mechanical system in a building that provides fresh air
    ventilating system; ventilation system.
    • she was continually adjusting the ventilation
  3. noun free and open discussion of (or debate on) some question of public interest
    public discussion.
    • such a proposal deserves thorough public discussion
  4. noun the bodily process of inhalation and exhalation; the process of taking in oxygen from inhaled air and releasing carbon dioxide by exhalation
    external respiration; breathing; respiration.

WordNet

Ven`ti*la"tion noun
Etymology
L. ventilatio: cf. F. ventilation.
Definitions
  1. The act of ventilating, or the state of being ventilated; the art or process of replacing foul air by that which is pure, in any inclosed place, as a house, a church, a mine, etc.; free exposure to air.
    Insuring, for the laboring man, better ventilation. F. W. Robertson.
  2. The act of refrigerating, or cooling; refrigeration; as, ventilation of the blood. Obs. Harvey.
  3. The act of fanning, or winnowing, for the purpose of separating chaff and dust from the grain.
  4. The act of sifting, and bringing out to view or examination; free discussion; public exposure.
    The ventilation of these points diffused them to the knowledge of the world. Bp. Hall.
  5. The act of giving vent or expression. "Ventilation of his thoughts." Sir H. Wotton.

Webster 1913