serous membrane

American  

noun

Anatomy, Zoology.

1. any of various thin membranes, as the peritoneum, that line certain cavities of the body and exude a serous fluid.

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serous membrane British  

noun

1. any of the smooth moist delicate membranes, such as the pleura or peritoneum, that line the closed cavities of the body and secrete a watery exudate

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Etymology

Origin of serous membrane

First recorded in 1865–70

Example Sentences

During the latter half of his life Henle’s researches were mainly histological in character, his investigations embracing the minute anatomy of the blood vessels, serous membranes, kidney, eye, nails, central nervous system, &c.

From Project Gutenberg

C. Weigert looks upon the deposits as analogous to those on serous membranes.

From Project Gutenberg

They have also a ramification of nerves, and the body of the gland has its own system of arterial vessels and absorbents, which are enclosed by a serous membrane.

From Project Gutenberg

Certain complications are apt to arise in erysipelas affecting the surface of the body, particularly inflammation of serous membranes, such as the pericardium or pleura.

From Project Gutenberg

In order that loss of power from friction may be obviated, the heart is enclosed between two layers of serous membrane, which forms a kind of sac.

From Project Gutenberg