Definition

Noun: * A type of epithelial cell with a cube-like shape: A cuboidal epithelial cell is a cell that is roughly as tall as it is wide, giving it a cube-like or hexagonal appearance when viewed in cross-section. These cells form a single layer in simple cuboidal epithelium or multiple layers in stratified cuboidal epithelium, and they are often involved in secretion and absorption.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • The lining of the kidney tubules is composed of cuboidal epithelial cells specialized for absorption.
  • Under the microscope, the cuboidal epithelial cell displayed a distinct, boxy shape with a centrally located nucleus.

Advanced Usage

• Simple cuboidal epithelium: A tissue composed of a single layer of cuboidal epithelial cells resting on a basement membrane.
  • The thyroid gland follicles are lined by simple cuboidal epithelium.
• Stratified cuboidal epithelium: A tissue composed of two or more layers of cuboidal epithelial cells.
  • Stratified cuboidal epithelium is found in the ducts of sweat glands.*

Variants and Related Words

• Cuboidal cell (n): A common, shorter synonym for "cuboidal epithelial cell."
  • The duct was lined with a single layer of cuboidal cells.
• Cuboidal epithelium (n): The tissue type formed by cuboidal epithelial cells.
  • The function of the organ is determined by the cuboidal epithelium that lines it.

Synonyms

• Cuboid cell: A less common term emphasizing the geometric shape.
• Polygonal epithelial cell: A broader term describing epithelial cells with multiple sides, which includes the cuboidal shape.

Related Phrases

• To be lined with cuboidal epithelium: Describes an organ or duct whose inner surface is composed of this tissue type.
  • The small ducts of the exocrine glands are lined with cuboidal epithelium.

Noun

1. an epithelial cell that shaped like a cube