thoracic duct

American  

noun

Anatomy.

1. the main trunk of the lymphatic system, passing along the spinal column in the thoracic cavity, and conveying a large amount of lymph and chyle into the venous circulation.

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thoracic duct British  

noun

1. the major duct of the lymphatic system, beginning below the diaphragm and ascending in front of the spinal column to the base of the neck

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Etymology

Origin of thoracic duct

First recorded in 1720–30

Example Sentences

Dropsies resulting from venous obstruction, as well as those following an obstruction of the thoracic duct or its branches, or of the several lymphatics of a part, are classified as mechanical dropsies.

From Project Gutenberg

They receive the chyle; from thence it passes into a receptacle, and finally into the thoracic duct.

From Project Gutenberg

The lacteals all unite to form one tube, the thoracic duct, which passes upward through the thorax, or chest, and empties into a large vein, situated just beneath the left collar-bone.

From Project Gutenberg

They pass into the thoracic duct and thence into the blood stream.

From Project Gutenberg

A portion of the small intestine, lacteal vessels, mesenteric glands, and thoracic duct.

From Project Gutenberg