v. ven·ti·lat·ed, ven·ti·lat·ing, ven·ti·lates v.tr. 1. To admit or force fresh air into (a building or closed space, such as a mine) to replace stale or noxious air. 2. To circulate through and freshen: A sea breeze ventilated the rooms. 3. To provide with a vent, as for airing. 4. To expose (a substance) to the circulation of fresh air, as to retard spoilage. 5. To expose to public discussion or examination: The students ventilated their grievances. 6. To inhale and exhale (air, for example); breathe. 7. To keep (a person or animal) breathing by artificial means. v.intr. To breathe in and out; inhale and exhale. [Middle English ventilaten, to blow away, from Latin ventilāre, ventilāt-, to fan, from ventulus, diminutive of ventus, wind; see wē- in the Appendix of Indo-European roots.] |
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