corpus spongiosum
/ˌspʌndʒɪˈəʊsəm
/noun (plural corpora spongiosa /-sə/) Anatomy
A mass of erectile tissue alongside the corpora cavernosa of the penis and terminating in the glans.These include the corpus spongiosum, which enlarges distally into the glans penis; parallel with, and dorsal to, the corpus spongiosum are the paired corpora cavernosa, which extend distally to the glans....
- The penis consists of two parallel cylinders of erectile tissue, the corpora cavernosa, and a smaller, single ventrally placed cylinder, the corpus spongiosum, which surrounds the urethra and distally forms the glans penis.
- The corpus spongiosum is a chamber that surrounds the urethra and becomes engorged with blood during an erection.
Origin
From corpus and Latin spongiosum, neuter of spongiosus 'porous'.