utricle

views updated May 17 2018

utricle (utriculus) (yoo-trik-ŭl) n.
1. the larger of the two membranous sacs within the vestibule of the ear. It contains a macula, which responds to gravity and relays information to the brain about the position of the head.

2. a small sac (the prostatic u.) extending out of the urethra of the male into the substance of the prostate gland.

utricle

views updated May 14 2018

utricle small sac or bladder. XVIII. — F. utricle or L. ūtriculus, dim. of ūter leather bottle; see -CLE.