Definition

A substance or nerve that causes blood vessels to narrow, which can increase blood pressure.

Example

The doctor prescribed a vasoconstrictor to help manage the patient's blood pressure.

Conversation

Have you heard about that new supplement they say acts as a vasoconstrictor?

Yeah, I read that it can help with blood flow during workouts.

It's interesting how some substances can really affect our bodies like that.

For sure! I wonder if it has any side effects, though.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Vasoconstrictor → It is formed from "vaso-" (from Latin "vas" meaning vessel) and "constrictor" (from Latin "constringere" meaning to tighten or narrow). The word describes a substance that causes blood vessels to tighten or narrow.

Memory Tip

Think of 'vessel' ('vaso-') being 'tightened' ('constrictor') — that's why a vasoconstrictor narrows blood vessels.

Visually Confused Words