First Known Use: 1845
Dictionary
portal vein
noun
Definition of PORTAL VEIN
: a vein that collects blood from one part of the body and distributes it in another through capillaries; especially : a vein carrying blood from the digestive organs and spleen to the liver
See portal vein defined for kids ADVERTISEMENT
Origin of PORTAL VEIN
2portal
Medical Dictionary
portal vein
noun
Medical Definition of PORTAL VEIN
: a large vein that is formed by fusion of other veins, that terminates in a capillary network, and that delivers blood to some area of the body other than the heart; especially : hepatic portal vein
Illustration of PORTAL VEIN
Learn More About PORTAL VEIN
Browse
Next Word in the Dictionary: portamentoPrevious Word in the Dictionary: portal–to–portalAll Words Near: portal vein
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up portal vein? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).