Mem"brane (?), n. [F., fr. L. membrana the skin that
covers the separate members
of the body,
fr. L. membrum. See Member.]
(Anat.) A thin layer
or fold of tissue, usually supported by a fibrous network, serving to cover or line some part or organ, and often secreting or absorbing certain
fluids.
&fist; The
term is also often applied to the thin,
expanded parts, of various texture, both in animals and vegetables.
Adventitious membrane, a membrane connecting parts not
usually connected, or of a different texture from the ordinary connection; as, the membrane of a cicatrix. -- Jacob's membrane. See under Retina. -- Mucous
membranes (Anat.), the membranes lining passages and cavities which communicate with the exterior, as well as ducts and receptacles of secretion, and habitually
secreting mucus. -- Schneiderian membrane. (Anat.) See Schneiderian. -- Serous membranes (Anat.) , the membranes, like the peritoneum and pleura, which line, or lie in,
cavities having no obvious outlet, and secrete a
serous fluid.
Hear it pronounced