varix
    n 1: abnormally enlarged or twisted blood vessel or lymphatic
         vessel

Varix \Va"rix\ (v[=a]"r[i^]ks), n.; pl. Varices
   (v[a^]r"[i^]*s[=e]z). [L.]
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   1. (Med.) A uneven, permanent dilatation of a vein.
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   Note: Varices are owing to local retardation of the venous
         circulation, and in some cases to relaxation of the
         parietes of the veins. They are very common in the
         superficial veins of the lower limbs. --Dunglison.
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   2. (Zool.) One of the prominent ridges or ribs extending
      across each of the whorls of certain univalve shells.
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   Note: The varices usually indicate stages of growth, each one
         showing a former position of the outer lip of the
         aperture.
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