The root word "arteri-" refers to an artery, which is a blood vessel that carries oxygenated blood from the heart to the rest of the body. Synonyms for this word include arteriole, arterial, arteriosclerosis, and arteritis. Arterioles are small arteries that branch off from larger ones, while arterial refers to anything related to an artery. Arteriosclerosis is a condition in which the walls of arteries become thick and stiff, while arteritis is inflammation in the walls of arteries. Knowing these synonyms for "arteri-" will help medical professionals discuss and diagnose issues related to blood flow in the body.