noun
- a membrane that lines the inside of body cavities and organs, secreting mucus to keep surfaces moist and protected
Usage: medical/anatomical term; often used in plural form 'mucosae' in technical contexts
Examples
- The mucosa of the stomach produces acid to help digest food.
- Inflammation of the nasal mucosa can cause congestion and difficulty breathing.
- The intestinal mucosa absorbs nutrients from digested food.
- Damage to the oral mucosa may result from aggressive brushing.
- The respiratory mucosa traps particles and pathogens to protect the lungs.