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pleura

noun pleu·ra \ ˈplu̇r-ə \

Definition of pleura

plural pleurae play \ˈplu̇r-ˌē, -ˌī\ or pleuras

: the delicate serous membrane that lines each half of the thorax of mammals and is folded back over the surface of the lung of the same side

—

pleural

play \ˈplu̇r-əl\ adjective

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Origin and Etymology of pleura

Middle English, from Medieval Latin, from Greek, rib, side

NEW! Time Traveler

First Known Use: 15th century

in the meaning defined above

See Words from the same year

Medical Dictionary

pleura

noun pleu·ra \ ˈplu̇r-ə \

medical Definition of pleura

plural pleurae play \ˈplu̇r-ē\ or pleuras

: either of a pair of two-walled sacs of serous membrane each of which lines one lateral half of the thorax, has an inner visceral layer closely adherent to the corresponding lung, is reflected at the root of the lung to form a parietal layer that adheres to the walls of the thorax, the pericardium, the upper surface of the diaphragm, and adjacent parts, and contains a small amount of serous fluid that minimizes the friction of respiratory movements

Learn More about pleura

See words that rhyme with pleura Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about pleura

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