Definify.com
Webster 1913 Edition
Membrane
Mem′brane
,Noun.
[F., fr. L.
membrana
the skin that covers the separate members of the body, fr. L. membrum
. See Member
.] (Anat.)
A thin layer or fold of tissue, usually supported by a fibrous network, serving to cover or line some part or organ, and often secreting or absorbing certain fluids.
☞ The term is also often applied to the thin, expanded parts, of various texture, both in animals and vegetables.
Adventitious membrane
, a membrane connecting parts not usually connected, or of a different texture from the ordinary connection; as, the membrane of a cicatrix.
– Jacob’s membrane
. See under
– Retina
. Mucous membranes
(Anat.)
, the membranes lining passages and cavities which communicate with the exterior, as well as ducts and receptacles of secretion, and habitually secreting mucus.
– Schneiderian membrane
. (Anat.)
See
– Schneiderian
. Serous membranes
(Anat.)
, the membranes, like the peritoneum and pleura, which line, or lie in, cavities having no obvious outlet, and secrete a serous fluid.
Webster 1828 Edition
Membrane
MEM'BRANE
,Noun.
The term is applied to the thin expanded parts, of various texture, both in animals and vegetables.