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

Individuals who live in dry climates may have drier mucous membranes than those in humid ones. —Bethany Brookshire, Scientific American, 9 Aug. 2024

Higher levels of IgA indicate better protection for the body's mucous membranes. —Lauren O'Connor, Ms, Health, 7 Aug. 2024

Inflammation Due to Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) Cystitis is an inflammation of the mucous membranes that line the bladder, usually caused by bacteria entering the body through the urethra. —Heather Jones, Verywell Health, 8 Aug. 2024

Lymphoma also affects these organs, as well as the tonsils, part of the respiratory tract, and mucous membranes. —Carrie Madormo, Rn, Health, 8 Aug. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1771, in the meaning defined above

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