[AIR- 7.]
1. Any cell or small cavity filled with air; esp. in pl. a. Small cells in the lungs of animals, forming the extremities of the ultimate ramifications of the bronchial tubes. b. Intercellular spaces or lacunæ in the stems, etc., of plants; air-cavities.
1787. Sir J. Hawkins, Johnson, 590 (Jod.). The aircells of the lungs unusually distended.
1855. Owen, Skel. & Teeth, 7. An air-cell, or prolongation of the lung, lines the cavity of the bone.
1860. Tyndall, Glac., I. § 7. 56. Compact ice, filled with innumerable air-cells.