Definition of thymus
thymuses
alsothymi
play \-ˌmī\: a glandular structure of largely lymphoid tissue that functions especially in cell-mediated immunity by being the site where T cells develop, is present in the young of most vertebrates typically in the upper anterior chest or at the base of the neck, and gradually decreases in size and activity after puberty
Explore Merriam-Webster
Origin and Etymology of thymus
New Latin, from Greek thymos warty excrescence, thymus
Medical Dictionary
thymus
playthymus gland
Medical Definition of thymus
thymuses
alsothymi
\-ˌmī\play: a glandular structure of largely lymphoid tissue that functions in cell-mediated immunity by being the site where T cells develop, that is present in the young of most vertebrates typically in the upper anterior chest or at the base of the neck, that arises from the epithelium of one or more embryonic branchial clefts, and that gradually decreases in size and activity after puberty
Learn More about thymus
-
See words that rhyme with thymus Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about thymus
Seen and Heard
What made you want to look up thymus? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Writing? Check your grammar now!