Definition

A small area or opening on an organ or structure where blood vessels, nerves, or other tissues enter or exit.

Example

The doctor explained that the hilus of the lung is where the bronchi and blood vessels connect.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of the term hilus?

Yeah, I think it refers to a specific part of a plant or organ, right?

Exactly! It's where the blood vessels and nerves enter.

That's interesting; I never knew that before.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

**Hilus** → The word 'hilus' comes from Latin 'hilum', meaning a small bit or a trifle, often used in a botanical context to refer to the scar on a seed where it was attached to the ovary. The term 'hilus' refers to a small, often indented area on an organ or structure, particularly in anatomy.

Memory Tip

Think of a small 'bit' or 'scar' on a seed where it connects to the plant — that's what 'hilus' refers to in anatomy.

Visually Confused Words