EPITHELIAL Meaning and
Definition
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Epithelial is an adjective that refers to the thin tissue layer that covers the external surfaces of the body and lines the cavities and passageways of various organs and structures within the body. Epithelial tissue is composed of tightly packed cells that are closely joined together, providing a protective barrier against physical damage, infection, and the loss of fluids and nutrients.
This tissue type serves several essential functions in the body. It acts as a barrier that separates different body compartments and protects underlying organs from damage caused by friction or mechanical stress. Epithelial cells also play a crucial role in absorption and secretion processes, as they may possess specialized structures called microvilli or cilia that increase surface area or enhance movement, respectively.
Epithelial tissue can be further classified into various types, including squamous, cuboidal, and columnar, based on the shape of the cells and the arrangement of cell layers. Squamous epithelial cells are flat and scale-like, cuboidal cells are cube-shaped, and columnar cells are elongated and have a column-like appearance. Each type of epithelial tissue is found in different organs or structures within the body and possesses unique characteristics and functions.
Overall, epithelial is an adjective that describes the tissue type found in various parts of the body, characterized by its thinness, cellular tight junctions, and protective functions.
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Relating to or consisting of epithelium.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
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Other Common Misspellings for EPITHELIAL
Etymology of EPITHELIAL
The word "epithelial" is derived from the Greek word "epithelium", which is a combination of two Greek words: "epi" meaning "upon" or "on", and "thelē" meaning "nipple" or "teat".
The term "epithelial" was coined by the German anatomist Johannes Müller in the 19th century. Müller used this term to describe the thin layer of cells that covers the external surfaces of the body, as well as the lining of organs, cavities, and glands. This combination of Greek roots in "epithelium" reflects the anatomical location of these tissues as a covering or layer (epi-) upon other structures.
Similar spelling words for EPITHELIAL
- epithelium,
- myo-epithelial,
- intra-epithelial,
- Neuro-epithelial,
- epitheliod,
- sub-epithelial,
- epithelioma,
- epithelially,
- epitheliale,
- apothelial.
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