Meninges: meaning, definitions and examples

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meninges

 

[ mɪˈnɪndʒiːz ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

protective membranes

The meninges are the three membranes that envelop the brain and spinal cord, providing protection and nutrients to the central nervous system. They consist of the dura mater, arachnoid mater, and pia mater.

Synonyms

coverings, membranes, sheaths.

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Word Description / Examples
meninges

Used specifically in medical or anatomical discussions to refer to the three protective layers of tissue that cover the brain and spinal cord.

  • Inflammation of the meninges can lead to a serious condition called meningitis.
  • The surgeon carefully examined the meninges to ensure there was no damage.
membranes

Commonly used in biological or medical discussions to describe thin, flexible layers of tissue that cover or line organs and structures in the body.

  • The cell membranes are crucial for protecting the cells and regulating what enters and exits.
  • Damage to the membranes in the lungs can lead to respiratory issues.
coverings

A general term used to refer to anything that covers or encloses something. Often used in everyday conversation or in a variety of contexts outside of medicine.

  • The coverings on the furniture kept it clean while the house was being renovated.
  • The seeds have tough coverings to protect them from the elements.
sheaths

Often used in anatomical or pseudo-military context to refer to protective casing or coverings, usually around nerves, tendons, or swords.

  • The myelin sheaths around nerves help in the efficient transmission of electrical signals.
  • He carefully placed the sharp blade back into its sheath to prevent any accidents.

Examples of usage

  • The inflammation of the meninges is known as meningitis.
  • Damage to the meninges can result in serious neurological complications.

Translations

Translations of the word "meninges" in other languages:

🇵🇹 meninges

🇮🇳 मस्तिष्कावरण

🇩🇪 Hirnhäute

🇮🇩 meninges

🇺🇦 менінге

🇵🇱 opony mózgowo-rdzeniowe

🇯🇵 髄膜 (ずいまく)

🇫🇷 méninges

🇪🇸 meninges

🇹🇷 meninksler

🇰🇷 수막

🇸🇦 سحايا

🇨🇿 mozkové pleny

🇸🇰 mozgové pleny

🇨🇳 脑膜 (nǎomó)

🇸🇮 možganske ovojnice

🇮🇸 heilahimnur

🇰🇿 минингалық қабықтар

🇬🇪 მენინგები

🇦🇿 meningealər

🇲🇽 meninges

Etymology

The word 'meninges' originated from the Greek word 'meninx', meaning membrane. The concept of meninges dates back to ancient times when physicians and anatomists began to study the protective layers surrounding the brain and spinal cord. Over the centuries, the understanding of meninges has evolved with advancements in medical science and technology.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,855, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.