atherosclerosis

noun

ath·​ero·​scle·​ro·​sis ˌa-thə-ˌrō-sklə-ˈrō-səs 

: an arteriosclerosis characterized by atheromatous deposits in and fibrosis of the inner layer of the arteries

atherosclerotic

ˌa-thə-ˌrō-sklə-ˈrä-tik 

adjective

Examples of atherosclerosis in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

According to this theory, cupping could improve blood circulation and prevent atherosclerosis (plaque buildup in the arteries). —Sherri Gordon, Health, 29 Jan. 2025

Two conditions within this category are atherosclerosis and arteriosclerosis, which are often confused. —Anisha Shah, Verywell Health, 1 Jan. 2025

The flavonoids in dark chocolate may reduce the risk of heart disease by protecting against atherosclerosis and reducing high blood pressure and blood lipid levels. —Jillian Kubala, Rd, Health, 27 Jan. 2025

The office lists his causes of death as acute myocardial infarction, effects of smoke inhalation, thermal injuries, and coronary artery atherosclerosis. —Ray Sanchez, CNN, 13 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

New Latin

First Known Use

1910, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

atherosclerosis

noun

ath·​ero·​scle·​ro·​sis ˌath-ə-rō-sklə-ˈrō-səs 

: hardening and thickening of the walls of arteries due to deposit of fatty substances in the inner layer

Medical Definition

atherosclerosis

noun

ath·​ero·​scle·​ro·​sis ˌath-ə-rō-sklə-ˈrō-səs 

plural atheroscleroses -ˌsēz 

: an arteriosclerosis characterized by atheromatous deposits in and fibrosis of the inner layer of the arteries

atherosclerotic

-sklə-ˈrät-ik 

adjective

atherosclerotically

-i-k(ə-)lē 

adverb