mucous membrane

noun

: a membrane rich in mucous glands
specifically : one that lines body cavities and passages (as of the gastrointestinal or respiratory tract) which communicate directly or indirectly with the outside of the body : mucosa
Pruritus and congestion involving mucous membranes of the eyes, nose, and mouth are frequently observed, and swelling of the lips or tongue may impair swallowing and ventilation. Bruce S. Bochner et al.

Examples of mucous membrane in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web It’s transmitted through direct contact with contaminated water, soil or food which enters the body through open wounds or mucous membranes. Eduardo Cuevas, USA TODAY, 18 Apr. 2024 The germs jump to people through direct contact with open wounds or mucous membranes. Beth Mole, Ars Technica, 17 Apr. 2024 Warts that appear on the skin may respond to home treatments, but certain types of warts, such as genital warts and warts that appear on the mucous membranes, should be assessed by a healthcare professional. Lacey Muinos, Verywell Health, 3 May 2024 All these exposures damage the structures that have evolved to protect humans from infection, including the skin and the mucous membranes of the gut and lungs. Kari Nadeau, STAT, 4 Apr. 2024 See all Example Sentences for mucous membrane 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'mucous membrane.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1771, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of mucous membrane was circa 1771

Dictionary Entries Near mucous membrane

Cite this Entry

“Mucous membrane.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/mucous%20membrane. Accessed 7 Jul. 2024.

Kids Definition

mucous membrane

noun
: a membrane rich in mucous glands
especially : one lining body passages and cavities (as of the nose or lungs) which connect directly or indirectly with the outside

Medical Definition

mucous membrane

noun
: a moist membranous layer rich in mucous glands that lines body passages and cavities (as of the digestive, respiratory, and genitourinary tracts) which connect directly or indirectly with the exterior, that functions in protection, support, nutrient absorption, and secretion of mucus, enzymes, and salts, and that is composed of epithelium supported below by the lamina propria and sometimes by the muscularis mucosae

called also mucosa

compare serous membrane

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