mesothelium
nounUK /ˌmesəˈθiːliəm/
US /ˌmezəˈθiːliəm/
A thin layer of cells that covers and protects the inside of body spaces like the chest and belly.
The mesothelium lines the chest cavity and helps keep the lungs moving smoothly.
RELATED WORDS
OTHER MEANINGS
2. The tissue layer that forms the lining of the pleural, pericardial, and peritoneal cavities.
Doctors examined the mesothelium for signs of inflammation.
3. A single layer of flat cells derived from the mesoderm during embryonic development.
The mesothelium develops from the middle germ layer in the embryo.
4. The cellular covering that secretes a lubricating fluid to reduce friction between organs.
The mesothelium releases fluid that lets the heart beat without rubbing.