medulla
nounUK /məˈdʌlə/
US /məˈdʌlə/
The medulla is the soft inner part of an organ, like the middle of a bone or kidney.
The doctor explained that the medulla is the innermost section of the kidney.
SYNONYMS
OTHER MEANINGS
2. The lowest part of the brainstem that controls breathing and heartbeat.
Damage to the medulla can affect a person's breathing.
3. The soft tissue inside bones where blood cells are made.
Bone marrow, found in the medulla of long bones, produces new blood cells.
4. The central strand of tissue in a plant stem or root.
In young stems, the medulla stores food and water.
5. The inner layer of certain fungi or lichens.
The medulla of the lichen lies beneath the outer cortex.