capillary
UK: kəˈpɪləri | US: ˈkæpəleri
n. 1. A tiny blood vessel connecting arteries and veins, facilitating the exchange of oxygen and nutrients.
n. 2. A tube with a very small internal diameter, often used in scientific contexts.
adj. 3. Relating to or resembling a hair; fine and slender.
The word capillary originates from the Latin capillaris, meaning "of hair," derived from capillus (hair). This reflects the hair-like thinness of these vessels. The suffix -ary (from Latin -arius) denotes association, forming an adjective or noun. The term was adopted into English in the 17th century to describe fine vessels, emphasizing their slender, hair-like structure.
Oxygen diffuses from capillaries into surrounding tissues.
The scientist used a glass capillary to measure liquid viscosity.
Capillary action allows water to rise in narrow tubes.
Her capillary walls were damaged due to high blood pressure.
The artist painted delicate capillary lines to mimic veins in the leaf.