early 15c., from French artérial (Modern French artériel), from Latin arteria; see artery.

artery-related (pop)

(adj) of or involving or contained in the arteries

a main road or thoroughfare.  Arterials are typically divided into "major arterials" and "minor arterials".

A major highway primarily used for through traffic and usually on a continuous route; it serves major traffic movements while providing access to abutting land.

Provides the highest level of service at the greatest speed for the longest uninterrupted distance, with some degree of access control.

In the functional classification of roads, arterials are traffic-controlled facilities that place relatively greater emphasis on service to through traffic and less emphasis on serving local land uses [..]

"Arterial" or "arterial highway" means a highway that is used primarily by through traffic. [1997 c.404 §2]

A road meant primarily for through movement of vehicles at a moderate speed, although some access to abutting property is expected.