serous membrane

noun

: a thin membrane (such as the peritoneum) with cells that secrete a serous fluid

especially : serosa

Word History

First Known Use

1813, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

serous membrane

noun

se·​rous membrane

ˈsir-əs-

: a thin membrane (as the peritoneum) with cells that secrete a watery fluid

Medical Definition

serous membrane

noun

: any of various thin membranes (as the peritoneum, pericardium, or pleurae) that consist of a single layer of thin flat mesothelial cells resting on a connective-tissue stroma, secrete a serous fluid, and usually line bodily cavities or enclose the organs contained in such cavities compare mucous membrane