thoracic duct

noun

, Anatomy.

1. the main trunk of the lymphatic system, passing along the spinal column in the thoracic cavity, and conveying a large amount of lymph and chyle into the venous circulation.

thoracic duct

noun

1. the major duct of the lymphatic system, beginning below the diaphragm and ascending in front of the spinal column to the base of the neck

Word History and Origins

Origin of thoracic duct¹

First recorded in 1720–30

Example Sentences

The various glands, salivary and gastro-intestinal, kidneys and liver, secrete more copiously, and the flow of a dilute lymph from the thoracic duct becomes greatly increased, while that from the cervical lymphatics becomes moderately accelerated.

From Project Gutenberg

They receive the chyle; from thence it passes into a receptacle, and finally into the thoracic duct.

From Project Gutenberg

The lacteals all unite to form one tube, the thoracic duct, which passes upward through the thorax, or chest, and empties into a large vein, situated just beneath the left collar-bone.

From Project Gutenberg

They pass into the thoracic duct and thence into the blood stream.

From Project Gutenberg

A portion of the small intestine, lacteal vessels, mesenteric glands, and thoracic duct.

From Project Gutenberg