Medical Root
phleb/o
phleb/o means vein (from the Greek).
What does phleb/o mean?
Phleb/o is a word root that means vein. It comes from the Greek word for vein and is used in medical terms relating to the veins, the blood vessels that carry blood back to the heart.
For example, phlebitis means inflammation of a vein, and phlebotomy is the drawing of blood from a vein (as when a blood sample is taken). When you see phleb/o, it is pointing to a vein.
Phleb/o is worth learning alongside other roots for blood vessels, such as those for arteries and general vessels, so you can tell apart terms describing different parts of the circulation.
Example words using phleb/o
Related word parts
Frequently asked questions
What does phleb/o mean?
Phleb/o is a root meaning vein.
What does phlebitis mean?
It means inflammation of a vein.
What does phlebotomy mean?
It means drawing blood from a vein.
Where does phleb/o come from?
It comes from the Greek word for vein.
Study reference only — not medical advice. Always consult qualified sources for clinical decisions.