Induration of the arteries is a condition where the arteries harden and become less flexible due to plaque buildup. Some common synonyms for induration of the arteries include atherosclerosis, arterial calcification, arterial narrowing, and arterial stenosis. Atherosclerosis is a term often used to describe the condition as it refers specifically to the buildup of plaque in the arteries. Arterial calcification refers to the hardened state of the arteries, while arterial narrowing and stenosis both point to the fact that the arteries have become narrower and less elastic. These terms are often used interchangeably, but each has slightly different nuances in meaning.