ˈva(a)riks, ˈver-, -rēks noun
( plural vari·ces -rəˌsēz)
Etymology: Latin varic-, varix — more at varicose
1.
a. : an abnormally dilated and lengthened vein, artery, or lymph vessel
esophageal varix
b. : an abnormal swelling and tortuosity especially of the superficial veins of the legs
2. : one of the prominent ridges across each whorl of various univalves showing a former position of the outer lip of the aperture