Medical Definition varicosity noun var· i· cos· i· ty ˌvar-ə-ˈkäs-ət-ē plural varicosities Varicosities, most commonly varicose veins, are twisted, enlarged veins at the skin’s surface. The word comes from the Latin word varix, which means “twisted.” Varicose veins occur due to the malfunction of valves in the deeper leg veins, known as venous insufficiency. A varicosity is a vein that is dilated, which usually develops in the legs. These abnormally enlarged, swollen veins are also commonly known as varicose veins. Doctors may interchangeably use the terms varicosity, varices, varicosis, or varicose vein. VARICOSITY definition: 1. the swollen and often painful state of a vein: 2. the swollen and often painful state of a…. Learn more. Varicosities are veins that have become enlarged, stretched, or twisted. This happens when vein walls weaken or the tiny valves inside the veins stop working properly. Healthy leg veins move blood back toward the heart. Valves inside the veins help keep blood flowing in the right direction. What are varicose veins (varicosities) and how do they occur? A varicosity or varicose vein is a dilated vein that primarily occurs in the lower limbs particularly in the legs. Varicosity can involve the main axial superficial veins, the great saphenous vein (GSV) or the small saphenous vein (SSV) or any other superficial vein tributaries of the lower limbs. Swelling of the limbs during pregnancy may be caused by a tendency toward varicosity. There is no correlation between the severity of the symptoms and the number and size of the varicosities. IPA: UK: /ˌvær.ɪˈkɒs.ə.ti/; US: /ˌver.əˈkɑː.sə.t̬i/ The General Pathological State: The quality, condition, or physiological state of being abnormally swollen, distended, or dilated. This is often the abstract noun form used to describe the overall presence of the condition. Varicosity refers to the enlargement, swelling, or abnormal dilation of veins, typically in the legs and feet, resulting in a twisted and bulging appearance. It is often associated with conditions like varicose veins due to weakened or damaged valves in the veins.