noun
epithelium
ep-ih-THEE-lee-um
Epithelium (noun) means the thin tissue made of one or more layers of cells that covers and lines the surfaces of the body and its organs. Example: “The epithelium lining the airways traps dust and germs.”
noun
1
anatomy The thin tissue made of one or more layers of cells that covers and lines the surfaces of the body and its organs.
"The epithelium lining the airways traps dust and germs."
"Skin is a form of epithelium."
"Damage to the epithelium can leave the tissue underneath exposed."
How to use epithelium
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe layer of cells that covers the body and lines its organs.
When to use it
It is a scientific term found mainly in biology and medicine.
Easily confused with
endothelium
Common pairings
the epithelium of the gut
damaged epithelium
lung epithelium
skin epithelium
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The _____ lining the airways traps dust and germs.
Etymology
Epithelium was taken from New Latin epithelium. It can be analysed as the parts epi-, thel- and -ium.
Synonyms
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epithelial tissue
Rhymes for epithelium
See all rhymes for epithelium →Frequently asked questions
What is epithelium?
It is a tissue of tightly packed cells that covers the outside of the body and lines internal surfaces and cavities.
What is the plural of epithelium?
The plural is epithelia, though epitheliums is also given.
Is skin an epithelium?
Yes, the outer covering of the body is one example of epithelium.
What is the meaning of epithelium?
"epithelium" (noun) means the thin tissue made of one or more layers of cells that covers and lines the surfaces of the body and its organs.
