noun
- a small artery that connects to capillaries
Usage: medical; anatomy
Examples
- The arteriole carries oxygenated blood from the artery to the capillary bed.
- Damage to arterioles can affect blood flow to tissues.
- The doctor explained how arterioles regulate blood pressure.
- Arterioles have smooth muscle that can contract or relax.
- High blood pressure can cause arteriole walls to thicken.
- The microscope revealed the tiny arterioles in the tissue sample.