peritoneum

peri·to·ne·um

noun \ˌper-ə-tə-ˈnē-əm\

plural peri·to·ne·ums\-ˈnē-əmz\ or -nea \-ˈnē-ə\

Definition of PERITONEUM

: the smooth transparent serous membrane that lines the cavity of the abdomen of a mammal and is folded inward over the abdominal and pelvic viscera

— peri·to·ne·al \-ˈnē-əl\ adjective

— peri·to·ne·al·ly \-ə-lē\ adverb

Origin of PERITONEUM

Middle English, from Late Latin, from Greek peritonaion, neuter of peritonaios stretched around, from peri- + teinein to stretch — more at thin

First Known Use: 15th century