trophoblast

[ trof-uh-blast, troh-fuh- ]
/ ˈtrɒf əˌblæst, ˈtroʊ fə- /

noun Embryology.

the layer of extraembryonic ectoderm that chiefly nourishes the embryo or develops into fetal membranes with nutritive functions.

Origin of trophoblast

First recorded in 1885–90; tropho- + -blast

OTHER WORDS FROM trophoblast

troph·o·blas·tic, adjective

Words nearby trophoblast

trophic, trophic level, trophic ulcer, trophied, tropho-, trophoblast, trophoblastic lacuna, trophoblastoma, trophoderm, trophodermatoneurosis, trophoneurosis

British Dictionary definitions for trophoblast

trophoblast
/ (ˈtrɒfəˌblæst) /

noun

the outer layer of cells of the embryo of placental mammals, which is attached to the uterus wall and absorbs nourishment from the uterine fluids

Derived forms of trophoblast

trophoblastic, adjective

Word Origin for trophoblast

C19: from tropho- + -blast

Medical definitions for trophoblast

trophoblast
[ trō′fə-blăst′ ]

n.

The outermost layer of cells of the blastocyst that attaches the fertilized ovum to the uterine wall and serves as a nutritive pathway for the embryo. trophoderm

Other words from trophoblast

tro′pho•blas′tic adj.

Scientific definitions for trophoblast

trophoblast
[ trō′fə-blăst′ ]

The outermost layer of cells of the blastocyst, which attaches the fertilized ovum to the uterine wall and serves as a nutritive pathway for the embryo. The trophoblast eventually differentiates into such tissues as the amnion, the placenta, and the umbilical cord.