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Epithelial: meaning, definitions and examples

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epithelial

 

[ˌepɪˈθiːliəl ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

biological tissue

Epithelial refers to a type of tissue that forms the outer layer of skin and lines various cavities and organs within the body. This tissue is composed of closely packed cells that provide protection, absorption, secretion, and sensation. Epithelial tissue is classified based on the shape of the cells and the number of layers present. Common types include simple squamous, cuboidal, and columnar epithelium. It plays a crucial role in establishing barriers and facilitating exchanges between the body's internal and external environments.

Synonyms

cellular, outer, skin-like.

Examples of usage

  • The epithelial layers protect internal organs.
  • Epithelial cells line the digestive tract.
  • Changes in epithelial tissue can indicate disease.
  • Epithelial tissue is involved in absorption.
  • Glands are formed from epithelial tissue.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from Greek, where 'epi' means 'upon' and 'thelium' means 'nipple' or 'surface', referring to the tissue being on surfaces.
  • It first entered the English language in the late 19th century, originally used in medical and biological texts.

Biological Function

  • Epithelial tissue forms protective barriers, absorbing substances and secreting fluids, crucial for organ function.
  • It's found in many places like the skin, lining of the mouth, and the airways in your lungs.

Health & Medicine

  • Damage to epithelial cells can lead to conditions like infections or cancer, emphasizing their role in health.
  • The term 'epithelial' encompasses various types, such as simple (one layer) and stratified (multiple layers), depending on their location and function.

Cultural Significance

  • In ancient medicine, the study of tissues was crucial; early doctors believed that understanding surfaces of body organs was key to healing.
  • Modern art sometimes symbolizes protection and layers, such as through the use of transparencies in art pieces, echoing the concept of epithelial layers.

Types & Examples

  • There are various types of epithelial tissue, such as squamous (flat), cuboidal (cube-shaped), and columnar (tall and column-like) cells, each serving specialized functions.
  • Glandular epithelium produces hormones and other secretions, playing a vital role in regulating body functions.

Translations

Translations of the word "epithelial" in other languages:

🇵🇹 epitelial

🇮🇳 उपकला

🇩🇪 epthelial

🇮🇩 epitel

🇺🇦 епітеліальний

🇵🇱 nabłonkowy

🇯🇵 上皮の

🇫🇷 épithélial

🇪🇸 epitelial

🇹🇷 epitelyal

🇰🇷 상피의

🇸🇦 طلائي

🇨🇿 epithelární

🇸🇰 epiteliálny

🇨🇳 上皮的

🇸🇮 epitelijski

🇮🇸 þekjuvefs

🇰🇿 эпителиалды

🇬🇪 ეპითელური

🇦🇿 epitelial

🇲🇽 epitelial

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,922 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.