carotid
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.”
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.
Word forms
carotids plural
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
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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