Definition
Vena is the Latin word for 'vein,' a type of blood vessel that carries blood towards the heart. 🩸 Veins typically carry deoxygenated blood (except for the pulmonary veins). They have thinner walls than arteries and contain valves to prevent backflow of blood. Understanding the structure and function of venae (plural) is key to understanding the circulatory system. Vena is the singular form.