noun
thymus
THYE-mus/ˈθaɪməs/
A gland near the breastbone where certain immune cells mature.
The thymus helps T cells mature and protect the body.
Etymology
Greek thymos literally meant “thyme” and was also used for a warty growth. The gland was probably named for a fancied resemblance to a thyme bud.
In context
in young children there's a small organ here called the thymus which helps in the development of the immune system
More examples
- The thymus sits behind the upper part of the breastbone.
- After puberty, the thymus gradually shrinks.
- The scan shows an enlarged thymus.
Forms
thymus · thymuses · thymi
thymic adjective — Relating to the thymus gland.