Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Artery Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿฉธ
Add to dictionary

artery

[หˆษ‘หtษ™ri ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

blood vessels

An artery is a blood vessel that carries blood away from the heart to the rest of the body. Arteries have thick walls made up of muscle and elastic tissue. They are responsible for delivering oxygenated blood to various tissues and organs.

Synonyms

arteria, blood vessel.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
artery

Commonly used in both everyday language and medical contexts to refer to the main blood vessels that carry blood away from the heart. It's a general term understood by most people.

  • The doctor explained that an artery is blocked, causing the heart problem.
  • The highway is often described as the main artery of the city.
blood vessel

A broad term encompassing arteries, veins, and capillaries. Suitable for both medical and everyday conversation to discuss any types of vessels transporting blood.

  • The nurse said that the blood vessel was damaged during the accident.
  • Blood vessels transport oxygen and nutrients throughout the body.
arteria

Primarily used in scientific and medical terminology, often in Latin descriptions or international contexts where Latin nomenclature is standard.

  • In anatomy class, we learned about the arteria iliaca communis.
  • Medical texts often include the term 'arteria' to maintain precision.

Examples of usage

  • The coronary artery supplies blood to the heart muscle.
  • A blocked artery can lead to serious health problems.
Context #2 | Noun

transportation

In transportation, an artery is a major road or route that connects different areas, allowing for the efficient movement of traffic. These arteries are usually well-developed and crucial for the overall connectivity of a region.

Synonyms

main road, thoroughfare.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
artery

Usually used in medical contexts to describe a major blood vessel that carries blood from the heart to the rest of the body.

  • The surgeon carefully examined the patient's coronary artery for any blockages.
  • Healthy living can prevent artery diseases.
main road

Commonly used to describe a major street or highway that carries a large volume of traffic.

  • The main road was closed due to an accident.
  • Our house is just off the main road, making it easy to find.
thoroughfare

Often used to describe a busy public street that connects multiple areas and is essential for traffic flow.

  • That thoroughfare is always bustling with activity.
  • New businesses often choose to locate on a major thoroughfare for visibility.

Examples of usage

  • The highway acts as the main artery connecting the city to the neighboring towns.
  • The train line serves as a vital artery for commuters.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Anatomy

  • The largest artery in the body is the aorta, which begins at the heart and branches out to supply blood to the body.
  • Unlike veins, arteries have thicker walls and higher pressure because they carry blood away from the heart.
  • Coronary arteries supply blood to the heart muscle itself, crucial for keeping the heart healthy.

Health

  • Healthy arteries are essential for good heart health, and factors like diet and exercise can influence their condition.
  • Conditions like atherosclerosis can cause arteries to become narrow, increasing the risk of heart disease.
  • Regular check-ups can help monitor artery health, especially as people age.

Science

  • Arteries are not just found in humans; they exist in many other animals, adapted to their specific circulatory needs.
  • The study of arteries and their functions is a key part of cardiovascular physiology, helping scientists understand heart health.
  • Innovations in medical technology now allow doctors to perform procedures on arteries, such as angioplasty, to repair them.

Cultural References

  • In literature and art, arteries are often used as metaphors for life and vitality, representing the flow of energy.
  • Songs and poems sometimes allude to arteries to symbolize connection and emotion, hinting at the circulatory link between feelings and life.
  • Some cultures view the heart, and by extension the arteries, as the center of emotion, connecting physical health to emotional well-being.

Origin of 'artery'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'arteria,' which was derived from the Greek 'artฤ“ria,' meaning 'air passage.'
  • Ancient physicians believed that arteries carried air; now we know they carry blood instead.
  • In old times, the understanding of arteries was linked closely with the study of pulse and respiration.

The word 'artery' originated from the Greek word 'artฤ“ria', meaning 'windpipe' or 'artery'. In ancient times, arteries were thought to carry air, not blood, hence the name. It wasn't until the 17th century that the true function of arteries in blood circulation was discovered.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,735, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.