omentum

noun

omen·​tum ō-ˈmen-təm How to pronounce omentum (audio)
plural omenta ō-ˈmen-tə How to pronounce omentum (audio) or omentums
: a fold of peritoneum connecting or supporting abdominal structures (such as the stomach and liver)
also : a fold of peritoneum free at one end
omental adjective

Examples of omentum in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web The omentum likely plays a role in metabolism as well. Nathaniel Scharping, Discover Magazine, 1 June 2017 In some situations, the omentum can also predispose us to harm. Nathaniel Scharping, Discover Magazine, 1 June 2017 Epithelial ovarian cancer sometimes spreads to the omentum, a layer of fatty tissue that covers the abdominal contents, so that is also usually removed for staging purposes, as are some lymph nodes in the pelvis and abdomen, the ACS says. Korin Miller, SELF, 13 Dec. 2018

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'omentum.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Latin; perhaps akin to Latin induere to put on, exuere to take off — more at exuviae

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of omentum was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near omentum

Cite this Entry

“Omentum.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/omentum. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

Medical Definition

omentum

noun
omen·​tum ō-ˈment-əm How to pronounce omentum (audio)
plural omenta -ə How to pronounce omentum (audio) or omentums
: a fold of peritoneum connecting or supporting abdominal structures (as the stomach and liver) see greater omentum, lesser omentum

More from Merriam-Webster on omentum

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