Either of the two main arteries that supply blood to the head of which the left in humans arises from the arch of the aorta and the right by bifurcation of the brachiocephalic artery with each passing up the side of the neck and dividing opposite the upper border of the thyroid cartilage into an external branch supplying the face, tongue, and external parts of the head and an internal branch supplying the brain, eye, and other internal parts of the head.
"The surgeon carefully avoided cutting the carotid artery during the procedure to prevent a catastrophic stroke."
of or relating to either of the two major arteries supplying blood to the head and neck
"The surgeon carefully avoided pressing on the carotid artery while performing the delicate procedure on her neck."
Of or pertaining to the carotid artery.
"The surgeon warned that any nick to the neck during surgery could damage the vessel, risking a tear in the major blood supply to the brain."