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Venule Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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venule

[ˈvɛnjuːl ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

medical term

A small vein that collects blood from capillaries and transports it to a vein.

Synonyms

capillary vein, small vein.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
venule

Often used in medical or biological contexts to describe a small vein that collects blood from capillary beds and drains into larger veins. It is a precise term used in anatomy or medical studies.

  • The venule plays a crucial role in returning deoxygenated blood back to the heart.
  • Inflammation can cause the venule to become enlarged.
small vein

This is a more general term that can be used in both medical and non-medical contexts to describe any minor vein in the body. It is less precise than 'venule' but is easily understood by a broader audience.

  • The small veins in your hands become more visible when you're cold.
  • After the surgery, it's important to monitor the small veins for any signs of infection.
capillary vein

This term is less common but may be used to refer to veins that are closely associated with or derived from capillaries. It is typically used in more detailed or explanatory medical discussions.

  • Capillary veins connect the smaller blood vessels to the larger venules.

Examples of usage

  • Blood flows from the capillaries into the venules before entering the larger veins.
  • The venule is responsible for carrying deoxygenated blood back to the heart.

Translations

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

Origin of 'venule'

The word 'venule' originated from the Latin word 'venula', which means small vein. It was first used in the early 19th century in the field of medicine to describe the small veins that collect blood from the capillaries. The concept of venules was first introduced by the anatomist Marcello Malpighi in the 17th century, who observed the connection between capillaries and veins in the circulatory system.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #38,047, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.