noun
carotid
kuh-ROT-ihd
Carotid (noun) means Either of the two main arteries in the neck that carry blood up to the head and brain. Example: “The paramedic checked her pulse at the carotid.”
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
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Word forms
- Plural
- carotids
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The paramedic checked her pulse at the _____.
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.
Frequently asked questions
What does “carotid” mean?
The word “carotid” means either of the two main arteries in the neck that carry blood up to the head and brain. In plain terms, the major neck artery supplying blood to the head and brain — often mentioned in medical contexts, like checking a pulse or blood flow.
How do you pronounce “carotid”?
“Carotid” is pronounced kuh-ROT-ihd (/kəˈɹɑt.ɪd/ in IPA).
How do you use “carotid” in a sentence?
Here is “carotid” used in a sentence: “The paramedic checked her pulse at the carotid.”
What part of speech is “carotid”?
Depending on how it is used, “carotid” can be a noun and an adjective.
Where does the word “carotid” come from?
The word “carotid” comes from Greek. From Greek karōtides, related to a verb meaning "to stupefy" — ancient anatomists noticed that pressing on these arteries could cause someone to lose consciousness.
How many meanings does “carotid” have?
“Carotid” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: either of the two main arteries in the neck that carry blood up to the head and brain.
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