Definition

Noun: A tubular structure in the body, part of the circulatory system, through which blood flows. Blood vessels form a network to transport blood to and from the heart to all tissues of the body.

Examples

• Arteries and veins are the two main types of blood vessels.
• The doctor said the rupture was in a small blood vessel in the brain.
• A healthy diet helps keep your blood vessels flexible and clear.

Advanced Usage

• "to constrict/dilate blood vessels": To narrow or widen the diameter of blood vessels, which affects blood pressure and flow.
  • Caffeine can cause blood vessels to constrict.
• "blood vessel integrity": Refers to the strength and proper functioning of blood vessel walls.
  • Vitamin C is important for maintaining blood vessel integrity.

Variants and Related Words

• Artery (n): A blood vessel that carries blood away from the heart.
• Vein (n): A blood vessel that carries blood back toward the heart.
• Capillary (n): A very small blood vessel where the exchange of oxygen, nutrients, and waste occurs between blood and tissues.
• Vascular (adj): Relating to or containing blood vessels.
  • The vascular system is extensive.

Synonyms

• Vessel (in a medical/biological context)
• Duct (less common for this specific meaning)
• Conduit (figurative)

Related Phrases

• Blood vessel wall: The layered structure forming the vessel.
  • Atherosclerosis involves the buildup of plaque on the blood vessel wall.
• Major/Minor blood vessel: Refers to the relative size and importance of the vessel.
  • The aorta is a major blood vessel.

Related Idioms

• "to make one's blood boil": To make someone very angry. (This idiom relates to the idea of increased blood pressure and flow, but does not directly mention the vessel).
  • His rude comments made her blood boil.

Noun

1. a vessel in which blood circulates