How Do You Spell CORTEX?

Pronunciation: [kˈɔːtɛks] (IPA)

The word "cortex" is spelled as /ˈkɔːrteks/. The first syllable, "cor", uses the /k/ sound because the letter "c" is followed by the vowel "o". The "or" sound is represented by the letters "or". The second syllable, "tex", uses the /t/ sound because the letter "x" represents the sound of "ks" and the "e" functions as a silent letter. "Cortex" refers to the outermost layer of an organ, particularly the brain. Its proper spelling is important for clarity and accuracy in writing about neurological or medical topics.

CORTEX Meaning and Definition

  1. The term "cortex" refers to the outermost layer, particularly in the context of anatomical structures found within living organisms. In biology and medicine, it predominantly denotes the outer layer of cells in an organ or structure. This specialized layer is typically composed of numerous interconnected neurons, forming an intricate network responsible for various functions.

    In terms of brain anatomy, the term "cortex" refers specifically to the cerebral cortex. This layer forms the outermost part of the brain, covering its entire surface. It is highly convoluted, featuring numerous folds called gyri and grooves known as sulci. The cerebral cortex plays a vital role in various cognitive processes, including memory, perception, attention, language, and consciousness.

    Outside of neurological contexts, "cortex" may also refer to the outer layer of other organs, such as the renal cortex in the kidneys or the adrenal cortex in the adrenal glands. In these instances, the cortex is responsible for tasks specific to each organ, such as filtering blood or producing hormones.

    Overall, the term "cortex" serves to describe the outer layer of an anatomical structure, particularly highlighting its important functions in sustaining and regulating various biological processes.

  2. 1. The bark or outer investment of the trunk, roots, and branches of a tree. 2. The outer portion of an organ such as the kidney, as distinguished from the inner, or medullary, portion. 3. The external plicated layer of gray matter covering the hemispheres of the cerebrum and cerebellum.

    A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

  3. The bark of a tree; a cover.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for CORTEX *

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Other Common Misspellings for CORTEX

Etymology of CORTEX

The word "cortex" originates from the Latin word "cortex" meaning "bark" or "rind". It is derived from the Proto-Indo-European root word "*ker-", which also means "bark" or "rind". In its literal sense, the Latin word "cortex" referred to the outer layer of tree bark. Over time, it came to be used metaphorically to describe the outer layer of an organ or a part of the brain. The term "cortex" became commonly used in anatomy to refer to the outer layer of the cerebrum, the largest part of the brain responsible for complex cognitive processes.

Similar spelling words for CORTEX

Plural form of CORTEX is CORTEXES

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