ectoderm

noun

ec·​to·​derm ˈek-tə-ˌdərm How to pronounce ectoderm (audio)
1
a
: the outermost of the three primary germ layers of an embryo that is the source of various tissues and structures (such as the epidermis, the nervous system, and the eyes and ears)
b
: a tissue (such as neural tissue) derived from this germ layer
2
: the outer layer of cells of a diploblastic animal (such as a jellyfish or sponge)
ectodermal adjective

Examples of ectoderm in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web There are a number of genetic disorders that can affect the ectoderm; this approach will not work across the board, experts say. Michael Nedelman, CNN, 18 May 2018 The outermost layer, the ectoderm, contributes to a number of structures including the skin, teeth, hair and sweat glands. Michael Nedelman, CNN, 18 May 2018

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'ectoderm.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary

First Known Use

1859, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of ectoderm was in 1859

Dictionary Entries Near ectoderm

Cite this Entry

“Ectoderm.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ectoderm. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

ectoderm

noun
ec·​to·​derm ˈek-tə-ˌdərm How to pronounce ectoderm (audio)
1
: the outer layer of cells of a two-layered animal (as a jellyfish)
2
: the outermost of the three basic layers of an embryo from which skin, nerves, and certain other structures develop
ectodermal adjective

Medical Definition

ectoderm

noun
ec·​to·​derm ˈek-tə-ˌdərm How to pronounce ectoderm (audio)
1
: the outermost of the three primary germ layers of an embryo
2
: a tissue (as neural tissue) derived from ectoderm
ectodermal adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on ectoderm

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