arterial
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /ɑːˈtɪəriəl/
KK: /ɑrˈtɪr i əl/
adjective
Definition
Relating to the main pathways or channels in a system, especially in terms of roads or blood vessels that carry oxygenated blood.
Example
The city is planning to expand its arterial roads to reduce traffic congestion.
Conversation
Did you see the new map of the city?
Yeah, I noticed they improved the arterial roads.
Right? It should make traffic flow a lot better.
Definitely! I’m looking forward to less congestion.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
main
central
primary
Antonyms
venous
secondary
peripheral
noun
Definition
A main road or street that allows for continuous traffic flow, often connecting different areas or regions.
Example
The new arterial road will help reduce traffic congestion in the city.
Conversation
Have you seen the new arterial road they built downtown?
Yeah, I drove on it yesterday; it really helps with traffic.
I think it will make getting around the city much easier.
Root Explanation
Arterial → It is formed from "arteria" (from Latin, meaning artery) and the suffix "-al" (meaning pertaining to). The word "arterial" refers to something that pertains to the arteries.
Memory Tip
Think of the word 'artery' which refers to blood vessels, and remember that 'arterial' means related to those blood vessels.
Visually Confused Words
eparterial
acroterial
material
asterial
apterial
atrial
aerial
nonarterial