stroma
[stroh-muh]
- Cell Biology. the supporting framework or matrix of a cell.
- Anatomy. the supporting framework, usually of connective tissue, of an organ, as distinguished from the parenchyma.
- Mycology. (in certain fungi) a compact, somatic mass of fungous tissue, in or on which the fructifications may be developed.
- Botany. the matrix of a chloroplast, containing various molecules and ions.
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Origin of stroma
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2018
Examples from the Web for stroma
Historical Examples
As the disease progresses, the stroma of the iris atrophies and contracts.
GlaucomaVarious
The perithecia are arranged in a circle neat the apex of the stroma.
It is formed of a core of stroma and a covering of epithelium.
The Works of Francis Maitland Balfour, Volume 1Francis Maitland Balfour
The stroma is generally scanty and rich in cells, but it may be abundant.
Both are a collection of cells diverse in form, multipolar, and maintained by a conjunctive pellicule (stroma).
The Mind and the BrainAlfred Binet
stroma
- the gel-like matrix of chloroplasts and certain cells
- the fibrous connective tissue forming the matrix of the mammalian ovary and testis
- a dense mass of hyphae that is produced by certain fungi and gives rise to spore-producing bodies
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Word Origin
C19: via New Latin from Late Latin: a mattress, from Greek; related to Latin sternere to strew
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
© William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins
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Word Origin and History for stroma
n.
1832, in anatomy, plural stromae, Modern Latin, from Latin stroma "bed covering," from Greek stroma "anything spread out for lying or sitting on" (see structure (n.)).
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Online Etymology Dictionary, © 2010 Douglas Harper
stroma
(strō′mə)- The connective tissue framework of an organ, a gland, or other structure, as distinguished from the tissues performing the special function of the organ or part.
- The spongy and colorless framework of a cell.
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The American Heritage® Stedman's Medical Dictionary
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