vasoconstriction

American  

[vas-oh-kuhn-strik-shuhn, vey-zoh-] / ˌvæs oʊ kənˈstrɪk ʃən, ˌveɪ zoʊ- /

noun

Physiology.

1. constriction of the blood vessels, as by the action of a nerve.

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vasoconstriction Scientific  

/ vā′zō-kən-strĭk′shən /

1. Constriction of a blood vessel, as by a nerve or drug.

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Etymology

Origin of vasoconstriction

First recorded in 1895–1900; vaso- + constriction

Example Sentences

Vasoconstriction and reduced blood flow keep a person warm, but they also increase blood pressure.

From Scientific American • Nov. 1, 2023

Vasoconstriction reduces blood flow in peripheral blood vessels, forcing blood toward the core and the vital organs found there, and conserving heat.

From Textbooks • Jun. 9, 2022

Vasoconstriction of the arterioles increases vascular resistance, whereas constriction of the veins increases venous return to the heart.

From Textbooks • Jun. 19, 2013

Vasoconstriction helps increase the core body temperature by preventing the flow of blood to the outer layer of the skin and outer parts of the extremities.

From Textbooks • Jun. 19, 2013

Vasoconstriction, the narrowing of blood vessels to the skin by contraction of their smooth muscles, reduces blood flow in peripheral blood vessels, forcing blood toward the core and vital organs, conserving heat.

From Textbooks • Apr. 25, 2013