What is the term for an abnormal whooshing sound heard over a main blood vessel indicating turbulent blood flow?

The term that describes an abnormal whooshing sound heard over a main blood vessel, which indicates turbulent blood flow, is indeed referred to as "bruit." Bruits can often be indicative of pathological conditions such as stenosis or vascular occlusion, where the flow of blood is altered due to narrowing or other abnormalities in the vessel. These sounds are typically detected using a stethoscope and can provide important diagnostic information about cardiovascular health.

Understanding the function of a bruit is crucial in clinical assessments, as it helps healthcare providers identify potential issues within the circulatory system that may require further investigation or intervention.