To form cavities or bubbles in a liquid, often as a result of rapid changes in pressure. The propeller began to cavitate, causing a loss of efficiency in the boat's movement.
To cause (a liquid or mechanical component) to form cavities or bubbles as a result of rapid changes in pressure; to induce cavitation in. Running the pump at too high a speed can cavitate the coolant and damage the impeller.
Of bodily tissue or a lesion: to develop a hollow space or cavity, often as a consequence of disease or decay. The radiograph showed that the lung abscess had begun to cavitate.