Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
arteriole
Noun
/ˌɑːr.təˈriː.oʊl/
Definition
A small blood vessel that branches from an artery and leads to capillaries.
Examples
- The arterioles constrict to increase blood pressure in response to certain stimuli.
- When arterioles dilate, they allow more blood to flow into the tissues.
- In the human body, arterioles play a vital role in regulating blood circulation.
Meaning
Arterioles are smaller arteries that control blood flow into capillary beds by regulating their diameter.
Synonyms
- Small artery
- Vasculature
- Precapillary vessel
