carotid

[ kuh-rot-id ]

noun

1. Also called ca·rot·id ar·ter·y [k, uh, -, rot, -id , ahr, -t, uh, -ree]. either of the two large arteries, one on each side of the head, that carry blood to the head and that divide into an external branch supplying the neck, face, and other external parts, and an internal branch supplying the brain, eye, and other internal parts.

adjective

1. pertaining to a carotid artery.

carotid

/ kəˈrɒtɪd /

noun

1. either one of the two principal arteries that supply blood to the head and neck

adjective

1. of or relating to either of these arteries

Derived Forms

• caˈrotidal, adjective

Other Words From

• ca·rot·id·al adjective
• in·ter·ca·rot·id adjective
• post·ca·rot·id adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of carotid¹

1660–70; < Greek karōtídes neck arteries, equivalent to karōt ( ikós ) soporific ( kár ( os ) stupor + -ōtikos -otic ) + -ides -id ¹; so called by Galen, who found that their compression causes stupor

Word History and Origins

Origin of carotid¹

C17: from French, from Greek karōtides, from karoun to stupefy; so named by Galen, because pressure on them produced unconsciousness

Example Sentences

Pulse wave velocity was measured by impedance cardiography, while carotid intima-media thickness and carotid artery distensibility were measured by carotid ultrasonography.

From Science Daily

Mature worms can measure as long as 4.5 inches and are most commonly found in the carotid arteries in the area of the head and neck, where they will mate and release microfilariae into the bloodstream.

From Science Daily

The protests over McClain and Floyd also ushered in a wave of state legislation to curb the use of neck holds known as carotid restraints, which cut off circulation, and chokeholds, which cut off breathing.

From Seattle Times

The tumor had spread through the thyroid gland, onto the carotid artery and into the tracheal rings.

From Los Angeles Times

He took Nancy’s hand and helped her onto the exam table, checking for circulatory problems as he felt her lymph nodes and her carotid artery for signs of swelling.

From New York Times