rhizoverbBeta
DictionarycortexOuter tissue layer
noun

cortex

KOR-teks/ˈkɔːrteks/

The outer layer of tissue in an organ or plant part.

The brain's folded cortex forms a thin outer layer around the white matter.

A three-quarter cutaway of a human cerebrum makes the thin, folded outer cortical layer clearly distinct from the pale inner white matter.
Etymology
cortexLatintree bark

Latin cortex meant tree bark. The image of an outer covering was extended to bark-like structures in anatomy, including the outer layer of the brain.

In context

Siebert Science6:30
we're usually talking about the outer or superficial part of this called the cerebral cortex
Brain: Cerebrum and Cerebellum (+ Broca’s, Wernicke’s, and limbic overview)

More examples

  • The root's cortex stores starch for the growing plant.
  • The adrenal cortex produces hormones that help regulate blood pressure.
  • The surgeon examines the brain's cortex for signs of damage.

Forms

cortex · cortices · cortexes

cortical adjective — Relating to an organ's outer tissue layer.

Similar words

outer layer
A general phrase that does not specifically identify living tissue.
rind
Usually refers to a tough outer covering, especially on fruit.