Main Entry: cor·tex

Pronunciation: \ˈkȯr-ˌteks\

Function: noun

Inflected Form(s): plural cor·ti·ces \ˈkȯrt-ə-ˌsēz\ or cor·tex·es

1 a : the outer or superficial part of an organ or body structure (as the kidney, adrenal gland, or a hair)

[cortex illustration]

; especially : cerebral cortex b : the outer part of some organisms (as paramecia)
2 a : a plant bark or rind (as cinchona) used medicinally b : the peel of any of several fruits—used especially in the writing of medical prescriptions