stroma

[ stroh-muh ]
/ ˈstroʊ mə /

noun, plural stro·ma·ta [stroh-muh-tuh] /ˈstroʊ mə tə/.

Cell Biology. the supporting framework or matrix of a cell.
Anatomy. the supporting framework, usually of connective tissue, of an organ, as distinguished from the parenchyma.
Mycology. (in certain fungi) a compact, somatic mass of fungous tissue, in or on which the fructifications may be developed.
Botany. the matrix of a chloroplast, containing various molecules and ions.

Origin of stroma

1825–35; < Late Latin strōma mattress < Greek strôma bed-covering; akin to Latin sternere to spread, strew, strātum (see stratum)

OTHER WORDS FROM stroma

stro·mat·ic [stroh-mat-ik] /stroʊˈmæt ɪk/, stro·mal, stro·ma·tous, adjective

Example sentences from the Web for stromata

British Dictionary definitions for stromata

stroma
/ (ˈstrəʊmə) /

noun plural -mata (-mətə) biology

the gel-like matrix of chloroplasts and certain cells
the fibrous connective tissue forming the matrix of the mammalian ovary and testis
a dense mass of hyphae that is produced by certain fungi and gives rise to spore-producing bodies

Derived forms of stroma

stromatic (strəʊˈmætɪk) or stromatous, adjective

Word Origin for stroma

C19: via New Latin from Late Latin: a mattress, from Greek; related to Latin sternere to strew

Medical definitions for stromata

stroma
[ strōmə ]

n. pl. stro•ma•ta (-mə-tə)

The connective tissue framework of an organ, a gland, or other structure, as distinguished from the tissues performing the special function of the organ or part.
The spongy and colorless framework of a cell.

Other words from stroma

stromal adj. stro•matic (-mătĭk) adj.