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Tissue: meaning, definitions and examples

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tissue

 

[ˈtɪʃuː ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

soft material

Tissue is a soft, thin piece of paper used for wiping tears or noses. It can also refer to a collection of similar cells that work together to perform a specific function in the body.

Synonyms

facial tissue, kleenex, paper tissue.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
tissue

General term for soft, thin paper used for cleaning, wiping, or blowing the nose. It is commonly used in both household and medical contexts.

  • She handed him a tissue to blow his nose
  • Always have a box of tissues in the car
paper tissue

Another term for tissue, used less frequently but can refer more generally to any type of paper-based tissue product.

  • We need to buy more paper tissues
  • She always carries a packet of paper tissues in her purse
kleenex

A brand name that has become a generic term in some countries for facial tissues, often used in conversational contexts. Note: It should be capitalized as Kleenex.

  • Do you have a Kleenex? There’s a box of Kleenex in the bathroom
facial tissue

Specifically refers to tissues used primarily for facial purposes like blowing the nose or wiping the face. Often presented in a box and intended for personal hygiene.

  • He reached for a facial tissue after sneezing
  • The hotel room had a box of facial tissues on the nightstand

Examples of usage

  • She used a tissue to wipe away her tears.
  • The doctor examined the tissue under a microscope.
Context #2 | Noun

biology

In biology, tissue is a group of cells that have a similar structure and function.

Synonyms

biological tissue, cell group.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
tissue

Commonly used in everyday language to refer to the material with specialized cells in animals and plants or a piece of soft thin paper for various uses.

  • She wiped her tears with a tissue
  • The doctor examined the tissue sample under a microscope
biological tissue

Used in scientific and medical contexts to describe a collection of cells with a similar structure and function.

  • The study focused on the regeneration of biological tissue
  • Researchers observed changes in biological tissue under different conditions
cell group

Often used in biology or medical research to describe a cluster of similar cells that function together. This term is less specific than 'tissue'.

  • The scientists isolated a cell group to study its properties
  • Understanding the behavior of a cell group can help in developing new treatments

Examples of usage

  • Muscle tissue helps the body move.
  • Nervous tissue carries messages to and from the brain.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the French 'tissu', meaning 'woven'. Originally, it referred to fabric made by weaving threads together.
  • In the early 19th century, 'tissue' began to refer to thin paper that mimicked fine fabrics.
  • In Latin, 'textus' means 'woven', which relates to how both paper and fabric can be described.

Science

  • In biology, 'tissues' are groups of cells that work together to perform a specific function, like muscle or nerve tissue.
  • The human body has four main types of tissue: epithelium, connective, muscle, and nervous, each contributing to overall function.
  • Tissues in plants can be classified similarly, with types such as parenchyma and xylem serving different roles.

Pop Culture

  • In the world of art, numerous artists have used tissue paper techniques to create layers and textures in their paintings.
  • In literature, characters often use 'tissues' for emotional moments, such as crying or reminiscing, making it a common symbol of vulnerability.
  • Popular movies show characters using tissues in scenes of breakup or loss, highlighting the connection between tissues and human emotion.

Psychology

  • Tissues are often associated with comfort in stressful situations, providing a physical way to manage emotions.
  • Research shows that using tissues during emotional events can help individuals process their feelings more effectively.
  • The act of crying and using a tissue can be cathartic, allowing people to release pent-up emotions.

History

  • In the late 1800s, the first paper tissues were marketed in the U.S. for personal hygiene, changing how people addressed colds and allergies.
  • During World War II, tissues became essential for soldiers to manage dust and dirt in combat environments.
  • In the 20th century, tissues evolved into various products, like facial tissues and toilet tissues, expanding their use in daily life.

Translations

Translations of the word "tissue" in other languages:

🇵🇹 tecido

🇮🇳 ऊतक

🇩🇪 Gewebe

🇮🇩 jaringan

🇺🇦 тканина

🇵🇱 tkanka

🇯🇵 組織 (そしき)

🇫🇷 tissu

🇪🇸 tejido

🇹🇷 doku

🇰🇷 조직

🇸🇦 نسيج

🇨🇿 tkáň

🇸🇰 tkanivo

🇨🇳 组织 (zǔzhī)

🇸🇮 tkivo

🇮🇸 vefur

🇰🇿 тін

🇬🇪 ქსოვილი

🇦🇿 toxuma

🇲🇽 tejido

Word Frequency Rank

This word ranks #1,849, placing it within important intermediate vocabulary. Learning it will significantly improve your ability to express yourself in English.