varices

2 definitions found

varices - Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48 :

  Varices \Var"i*ces\, n. pl.
     See Varix.
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  Varix \Va"rix\ (v[=a]"r[i^]ks), n.; pl. Varices
     (v[a^]r"[i^]*s[=e]z). [L.]
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     1. (Med.) A uneven, permanent dilatation of a vein.
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     Note: Varices are owing to local retardation of the venous
           circulation, and in some cases to relaxation of the
           parietes of the veins. They are very common in the
           superficial veins of the lower limbs. --Dunglison.
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     2. (Zool.) One of the prominent ridges or ribs extending
        across each of the whorls of certain univalve shells.
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     Note: The varices usually indicate stages of growth, each one
           showing a former position of the outer lip of the
           aperture.
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