# aorta

/eɪˈɔɹtə/ (US) · /eɪˈɔːtɐ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/aorta
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

the largest and strongest blood vessel in the body. It carries blood from the heart to the rest of the body.

For teachers: the largest artery in the human body, originating from the left ventricle of the heart and carrying oxygenated blood to the systemic circulation.

## Examples

- The aorta is the main pipe for blood flow.
- Doctors use imaging to check the aorta for any signs of narrowing or weakening that could cause a stroke.
- The aorta's elastic walls allow it to withstand the high pressure of blood pumped from the heart while maintaining a steady flow to the systemic circulation.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.