1. Plural of alveolar; consonant sounds produced with the tongue against or near the alveolar ridge (the ridge behind the upper front teeth).
Usage: linguistics; phonetics

1. Relating to or denoting consonants articulated with the tongue against the alveolar ridge.
Usage: linguistics; phonetics
2. Relating to or affecting the alveoli (small air sacs in the lungs).
Usage: anatomy; medicine

Examples

• In English, /t/, /d/, and /n/ are common alveolars.
• The alveolars /s/ and /z/ are produced by directing air over the alveolar ridge.
• Linguists classify consonants by their place of articulation, including alveolars.
• Alveolar bone loss is a concern in advanced periodontal disease.
• The alveolar surface area of the lungs is crucial for gas exchange.