Epithelial - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Epithelial refers to tissues that cover the surfaces of organs, glands, and body structures. These cells protect, absorb, and secrete substances, playing a vital role in bodily functions.
Definition:
Tissue forming outer surfaces of organs and lining body cavities.
Synonyms:
membranous, cutaneous, cellular, dermal
Part of Speech:
adjective
Antonyms:
noncellular, connective, muscular
Common Collocations:
epithelial cells, epithelial tissue, epithelial layer, epithelial damage
Derivatives:
epithelium, epithelially
Usage Tips:
Use "epithelial" to describe tissues covering surfaces or lining cavities in biology contexts.
Common Phrases:
epithelial lining, epithelial barrier, epithelial growth
Etymology:
From Greek "epi-" (upon) + "thēlē" (nipple), referring to tissue layers.
Examples:
- 1. The epithelial layer protects underlying tissues.
- 2. Epithelial cells regenerate quickly after injury.
- 3. The doctor examined the patient’s epithelial damage.
- 4. Epithelial tissues line the digestive tract.