parallel
par·al·lel (parґə-lel) [L. parallelus] 1. pertaining to straight lines or planes that do not intersect. 2. pertaining to electric circuit components connected “in parallel†so that the current flow divides, each branch passing through one component, and rejoins; applied by extension to any similar parallel circuit, e.g., the systemic circulation to the various organs. Cf. series.
Medical dictionary.
2011.