villus
vil·lus
noun \ˈvi-ləs\ plural vil·li\ˈvi-ˌlī, -(ˌ)lē\
Definition of VILLUS
: a small slender often vascular process: as a : one of the minute finger-shaped processes of the mucous membrane of the small intestine that serve in the absorption of nutriment b : one of the branching processes of the surface of the chorion of the developing embryo of most mammals that help to form the placenta
See Origin of VILLUS
New Latin, from Latin, tuft of shaggy hair — more at velvet
First Known Use: 1728
Learn More About VILLUS
Browse
Seen & Heard 
What made you want to look up villus? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
