Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

lacteal

Noun

/ˈlæk.ti.əl/

Definition

A lacteal is a type of lymphatic vessel that is responsible for the absorption of dietary fats in the form of chyle from the intestines.

Examples

The lacteals in the intestinal villi absorb fats and transporting them to the lymphatic system.
After eating a fatty meal, the lacteals become engorged with chyle.
Diseases affecting the lacteals can lead to malabsorption of fats.

Meaning

The term ‘lacteal’ comes from the Latin word ‘lacteus’, meaning ‘milky’, which describes the appearance of the fluid (chyle) that is collected by these vessels after a meal.