: a thin membrane (such as the peritoneum) with cells that secrete a serous fluid
especially: serosa
Word History
First Known Use
1813, in the meaning defined above
Medical Definition
serous membrane
noun
: any of various thin membranes (as the peritoneum, pericardium, or pleurae) that consist of a single layer of thin flat mesothelial cells resting on a connective-tissue stroma, secrete a serous fluid, and usually line bodily cavities or enclose the organs contained in such cavities compare mucous membrane