ˌ ̷ ̷ ̷ ̷ˈtāshən noun
( -s )
Etymology: cavity + -ation
1.
a. : the formation of partial vacuums in a liquid especially as a result of the passage through it of a swiftly moving solid body (as a propeller blade) or of high-frequency sound waves
b. : the pitting and wearing away of solid surfaces (as metal or concrete) as a result of the collapse of these vacuums
2. : the formation of one or more cavities in an organ or tissue (as in the brain, lung, spinal cord, or teeth) especially as a result of disease
3. : a cavity formed by cavitation