mucous membrane

noun

: a membrane rich in mucous glands

specifically : one that lines body cavities and passages (as of the gastrointestinal or respiratory tract) which communicate directly or indirectly with the outside of the body : mucosa

Pruritus and congestion involving mucous membranes of the eyes, nose, and mouth are frequently observed, and swelling of the lips or tongue may impair swallowing and ventilation.

—Bruce S. Bochner et al.

Examples of mucous membrane in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

This super botanical blend acts almost as a lubricant to soothe irritation in the esophagus and support mucous membranes of the digestive tract. —Brianna Peters, Vogue, 30 June 2025

Vitamin A: Lack of vitamin A can contribute to dry mucous membranes in the mouth. —Lana Barhum, Verywell Health, 6 June 2025

Sneezing Sneezing is a response to irritation of the mucous membranes in the nose or throat. —Lauren Schlanger, Verywell Health, 3 Apr. 2025

When consumed, these tiny particles are absorbed more efficiently through the mucous membranes and the gut lining, bypassing the traditional digestive process that delays the onset of effects in standard edibles. —Matt Rozo, Mercury News, 17 Apr. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1771, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for mucous membrane

• cyclopropane
• isobutane
• legerdemain
• nitromethane
• ultramontane
• abstain
• airplane
• alkane
• arcane
• arraign
• attain
• backplane

Kids Definition

mucous membrane

noun

: a membrane rich in mucous glands

especially : one lining body passages and cavities (as of the nose or lungs) which connect directly or indirectly with the outside

Medical Definition

mucous membrane

noun

: a moist membranous layer rich in mucous glands that lines body passages and cavities (as of the digestive, respiratory, and genitourinary tracts) which connect directly or indirectly with the exterior, that functions in protection, support, nutrient absorption, and secretion of mucus, enzymes, and salts, and that is composed of epithelium supported below by the lamina propria and sometimes by the muscularis mucosae

called also mucosa

compare serous membrane