parenchyma

/pærɛnˈkɪmə/

Definitions

1. noun

The main functional tissue of an organ, such as the liver or lungs, that is composed of parenchymal cells.

“The parenchyma of the liver plays a crucial role in detoxifying the blood.”

2. noun

The main body of a cell, especially in plant cells, containing the cell organelles and nucleus.

“The parenchyma of plant cells is responsible for photosynthesis.”

Synonyms

  • parenchymal cells
  • parenchymal tissue

Antonyms

  • interstitium
  • stroma