Carotid: meaning, definitions and examples

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carotid

 

[ kəˈrɒt.ɪd ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

anatomy, medical

The term 'carotid' refers to either of the two major arteries in the neck that supply blood to the brain, neck, and face. The carotid arteries are crucial for providing oxygenated blood to the brain, and they divide into the internal and external carotid arteries. Blockage or narrowing of these arteries can lead to serious health issues, including strokes.

Synonyms

artery, vascular structure

Examples of usage

  • The doctor examined my carotid arteries for any signs of blockage.
  • A carotid artery ultrasound can help assess blood flow.
  • High cholesterol levels can negatively affect the carotid arteries.
  • The carotid artery supplies oxygen-rich blood to the brain.

Translations

Translations of the word "carotid" in other languages:

🇵🇹 carótida

🇮🇳 स्रोतधार

🇩🇪 Halsschlagader

🇮🇩 karotis

🇺🇦 сонна артерія

🇵🇱 tętnica szyjna

🇯🇵 頸動脈

🇫🇷 carotide

🇪🇸 carótida

🇹🇷 karotis

🇰🇷 경동맥

🇸🇦 الشريان السباتي

🇨🇿 krční tepna

🇸🇰 krčná tepna

🇨🇳 颈动脉

🇸🇮 karotida

🇮🇸 hálsæð

🇰🇿 мойын артериясы

🇬🇪 კისრის არტერია

🇦🇿 yuxarı arteriya

🇲🇽 carótida

Etymology

The word 'carotid' stems from the Greek word 'karōtides', which is derived from 'karōtizō', meaning to make sleepy or to stupefy. This association arises from the observation that when pressure is applied to these arteries, it can lead to fainting or loss of consciousness. The term first appeared in English in the early 18th century. Its etymology reflects the artery's critical role in cerebral blood flow and the potential consequences of obstruction or damage to these vessels. Over time, the medical understanding of carotid arteries has evolved, leading to sophisticated diagnostic and treatment approaches for related health issues.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,271, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.