Definition

Noun: 1. A body cavity in animals: In zoology and embryology, the celoma (also spelled coelom) is a fluid-filled cavity that forms within the mesoderm (the middle layer of cells) of a developing embryo in many animals, including humans. It is lined with a special tissue called mesothelium. This cavity provides space for the development and protection of internal organs.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • The presence of a true celoma is a key characteristic that distinguishes higher animals from simpler ones.
  • During embryonic development, the celoma partitions to form the pleural, pericardial, and peritoneal cavities.
  • Scientists study the formation of the celoma to understand fundamental body plan organization.

Advanced Usage

• "Enterocoelic celoma formation": A specific method of celoma development where the cavity forms from pouches that pinch off from the embryonic gut.
• "Schizocoelic celoma formation": A specific method of celoma development where the cavity forms from splits within solid masses of mesoderm.

Variants and Related Words

• Coelom (n): The standard and more common alternate spelling of "celoma".
• Coelomic (adj): Relating to or of the nature of a celoma/coelom.
  • The heart is surrounded by the coelomic cavity.
• Coelomate (n/adj): An animal that possesses a true celoma/coelom; having a celoma.
  • Humans are coelomate animals.
• Pseudocoelom (n): A body cavity that is not fully lined by mesoderm, unlike a true celoma.
• Acoelomate (n/adj): An animal that lacks a body cavity; without a celoma.

Synonyms

• Body cavity: A general term for any space within an animal body that contains organs.
• Coelomic cavity: A more specific synonym directly referencing the celoma.

Related Terms (Not Phrasal Verbs or Idioms)

• Mesoderm: The middle germ layer in an embryo from which the celoma and many internal structures form.
• Peritoneal cavity: The celoma-derived cavity that contains the abdominal organs.
• Pleural cavity: The celoma-derived cavity that surrounds the lungs.
• Pericardial cavity: The celoma-derived cavity that surrounds the heart.

Noun

1. a cavity in the mesoderm of an embryo that gives rise in humans to the pleural cavity and pericardial cavity and peritoneal cavity