amniotic fluid


noun Anatomy, Zoology.

the watery fluid in the amnion, in which the embryo is suspended.

British Dictionary definitions for amniotic fluid

amniotic fluid

noun

the fluid surrounding the fetus in the womb

Medical definitions for amniotic fluid

amniotic fluid

n.

The fluid within the amnion that surrounds the fetus and protects it from injury.

Scientific definitions for amniotic fluid

amniotic fluid
[ ăm′nē-ŏtĭk ]

The watery fluid within the amnion that surrounds the fetus. Amniotic fluid cushions the fetus from injury, allows movement, and helps to stabilize temperature. The composition of the fluid changes over the course of gestation. Initially, amniotic fluid is similar to maternal plasma. As the fetus develops, phospholipids originating from the lungs, fetal cells, lanugo, and urine are deposited in the fluid.

Cultural definitions for amniotic fluid

amniotic fluid
[ (am-nee-ot-ik) ]

The fluid, resembling salt water, contained in the amniotic sac; the embryo or fetus floats in the amniotic fluid.