# MCA

CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/mca
Updated: 2026-05-09

## Definition

Stands for Middle Cerebral Artery. A large blood vessel in the brain that provides blood to the parts that control movement and speech.

For teachers: Abbreviation for Middle Cerebral Artery. One of the three major paired arteries that supply blood to the cerebrum, specifically the lateral surfaces of the frontal, parietal, and temporal lobes.

## Examples

- The doctor checked the blood flow in the patient's MCA.
- A blockage in the MCA is a common cause of stroke and can lead to sudden weakness on one side of the body.
- Radiologists often use Doppler ultrasound to measure the velocity of blood flow through the MCA to assess the risk of vasospasm following a subarachnoid hemorrhage.

## Usage notes

- Typically used as a singular countable noun in clinical reports; often preceded by the definite article 'the'.

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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.