PLACENTA Meaning and
Definition
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Placenta is a noun that refers to a temporary and highly specialized organ that is formed in the uterus of pregnant mammals during pregnancy. It is characterized by its disc-like shape and unique structure, predominantly composed of both maternal and fetal tissues. The main function of the placenta is to facilitate the exchange of nutrients, oxygen, and waste products between the mother and developing fetus.
The placenta is generated from the developing embryo following implantation into the uterine wall. It forms a vital connection between the fetus and the uterine lining, allowing for the transfer of substances essential for fetal development and growth. The organ also plays a crucial role in hormone production, producing hormones such as human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) to maintain the pregnancy.
The placenta consists of multiple layers, including the amniotic membrane, chorionic villi, and decidua, all of which contribute to its overall functionality. The maternal side of the placenta is attached to the uterine wall, while the fetal side is in direct contact with the amniotic fluid and umbilical cord.
After childbirth, the placenta is expelled from the uterus through the process known as the afterbirth. It is then no longer required and is typically disposed of. However, the placenta holds cultural significance in some societies and is occasionally consumed or utilized for various purposes due to perceived health benefits.
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1. The organ of communication between the fetus and the mother; it is formed from the outer layer of the fetal envelopes, or chorion, and is of flat circular form, about the size of a soup-plate, or seven inches in diameter. The fetal surface is smooth and from it proceeds the umbilical cord; the maternal surface is marked by a number of lobules, or cotyledons, which project into sinuses in the wall of the uterus, being there bathed in the maternal blood; by this means the fetal blood receives oxygen and nutriment and gives up waste material, the placenta therefore performing the functions of respiration, nutrition, and excretion. After the expulsion of the child the placenta is called the after-birth. 2. An enlarged spleen, a clot, or other body having a resemblance to a placenta. 3. In botany, the sporophore, the part of the ovary of a plant which contains the ovules.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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In anat., the roundish, flat, flesh-like substance in the womb, forming the principal medium of communication between the parent and child, and which, being expelled after the birth, is popularly called the after-birth; in bot., the cellular part of the carpel bearing the ovule.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for PLACENTA *
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Other Common Misspellings for PLACENTA
Etymology of PLACENTA
The word "placenta" comes from the Latin word "placenta", which means "a cake". This Latin term was likely borrowed from the ancient Greek word "plakóenta", which also means "a flat cake". The term was first used in the biological context to refer to the flat, disc-shaped organ that develops during pregnancy and provides oxygen and nutrients to the developing fetus.
Similar spelling words for PLACENTA
- placeman,
- pleasants,
- pleasance,
- placement,
- pleasant,
- place mat,
- plasencia,
- pleasantry,
- pleasantly,
- placencia,
- placuna,
- place name,
- Plzen,
- placental,
- Plascencia,
- pliocene.
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