1. n. a doorway or gate etc., esp. a large and elaborate one.
Etymology: ME f. OF f. med.L portale (neut. adj.): see PORTAL(2) 2. adj.1 of or relating to an aperture in an organ through which its associated vessels pass.
2 of or relating to the portal vein.
Phrases and idioms:
portal vein a vein conveying blood to the liver from the spleen, stomach, pancreas, and intestines.
Etymology: mod.L portalis f. L porta gate