noun

peritoneum

pair-ih-tuh-NEE-um/ˌperɪtəˈniːəm/

The membrane lining the abdominal cavity and covering many of its organs.

The peritoneum lines the abdominal cavity and covers many organs.

An isolated anatomical cutaway of the abdomen showing the peritoneum as a thin, continuous membrane lining the inner abdominal wall and reflecting over the stomach and intestinal loops.

Etymology

The elements 'around' and 'stretch' describe a 'part stretched over.' This names the membrane by its position as a lining and covering within the abdomen.

In context

FST_Sensei26:06

the peritoneum is the serous membrane of the abdominal cavity with the visceral peritoneum covering the abdominal viscera and the parietal lining the abdominal wall

Introduction to Mortuary Anatomy and Anatomical Terminology

More examples

During surgery, the doctor carefully opens the peritoneum.
An infection can cause painful inflammation of the peritoneum.
In peritoneal dialysis, the peritoneum acts as a natural filter.

Forms

peritoneum · peritonea · peritoneums

peritoneal adjective — Relating to the membrane lining the abdomen.

peritonitis noun — Inflammation of the membrane lining the abdomen.