Vein: meaning, definitions and examples

Mainly used to refer to the blood vessels that carry deoxygenated blood towards the heart. Commonly used in medical contexts or when discussing anatomy.

• The nurse had trouble finding a good vein for the blood draw.
• During the surgery, the doctor repaired the damaged vein.

A general term that can refer to veins, arteries, or capillaries. Used when the specific type of vessel is either unknown or irrelevant.

• The injury caused damage to several blood vessels.
• Blood vessels are an essential part of the circulatory system.

Describes the smallest blood vessels where the exchange of oxygen, carbon dioxide, and other substances between blood and tissues takes place. Commonly appears in detailed anatomical or physiological discussions.

• Capillaries are so small that red blood cells move through them in single file.
• Oxygen is exchanged for carbon dioxide at the capillary level.

Refers to the blood vessels that carry oxygenated blood away from the heart to the rest of the body. Often discussed in medical or biological contexts.

• The heart attack was caused by a blocked artery.
• Arteries are crucial for transporting oxygen-rich blood.

Use when referring to the general structure or appearance of a mineral-filled crack or fissure within a rock.

• The geologist identified a rich vein of quartz running through the granite

Use in a broader context to refer to any accumulation of minerals in the earth, not necessarily within a single vein or lode.

• The region is known for its extensive mineral deposits, which attract mining companies from around the world

Use when specifically discussing a vein that contains a significant amount of ore, which is the raw material from which a valuable metal can be extracted.

• The miners found an ore vein rich in copper, promising a lucrative extraction process

Use when talking about a large and rich source or deposit of minerals, particularly metals, that may encompass multiple veins.

• The discovery of the gold lode prompted a massive influx of prospectors to the area

Use 'vein' when discussing lines or markings in natural elements like marble or leaves, or when referring to blood vessels in a body.

• The marble countertop had a beautiful vein running through it.
• She could see a blue vein under her pale skin.

Use 'grain' when talking about the texture or quality of wood, foods like cereals, or in a more abstract way to describe small, hard particles.

• The oak table had a fine, even grain.
• He added some whole grain to his diet.

Use 'streak' when describing a long, thin line or mark, often irregular and appearing on surfaces, or metaphorically when discussing behavior or events that happen in succession.

• There was a streak of paint on the wall.
• The team is on a winning streak.

Use 'pattern' when referring to repeated decorative designs or arrangements, or to describe regular and predictable occurrences.

• The wallpaper had a floral pattern.
• She noticed a pattern in his behavior.