Artery (noun)

1. A blood vessel that carries blood from the heart to the body's organs and tissues.
2. A main thoroughfare or channel of communication or trade.

Origin:

Late middle english: via old french artere, from latin arteria, from greek arthēria, denoting the windpipe or a vein, from arthron "joint".

Examples:

1. The blocked artery prevented the blood from flowing to his heart.
2. A healthy diet and exercise can help keep your arteries clear.
3. The city's main artery is jammed with traffic.
4. This river is the economic artery of the region.
5. The company"s new product launch is considered as the life line of the company"s growth.