noun
carotid
kuh-ROT-ihd
noun
1
Either of the two main arteries in the neck that carry blood up to the head and brain.
"The paramedic checked her pulse at the carotid."
adjective
1
Relating to the carotid artery.
"A carotid ultrasound can detect narrowing of the artery walls."
How to Use Carotid
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe major neck artery supplying blood to the head and brain — often mentioned in medical contexts, like checking a pulse or blood flow.
Common pairings
carotid artery
carotid pulse
carotid ultrasound
Word Forms
carotids plural
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Etymology
From Greek karōtides, related to a verb meaning "to stupefy" — ancient anatomists noticed that pressing on these arteries could cause someone to lose consciousness.