Definition

1. Noun:
   • The sheath of connective tissue that covers a bundle of muscle fibers: The perimysium is a fibrous layer of connective tissue that surrounds and groups individual muscle fibers into bundles called fascicles.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The perimysium provides structural support and a pathway for nerves and blood vessels to reach the muscle fibers.
  • Under the microscope, the perimysium can be seen separating one fascicle from another.

Advanced Usage

• Histological context: In detailed anatomical or histological descriptions, the perimysium is often discussed in relation to the other connective tissue layers of a muscle, namely the endomysium (around single fibers) and the epimysium (around the entire muscle).
  • The three layers of connective tissue—the epimysium, perimysium, and endomysium—collectively form the muscle's fascia.

Variants and Related Words

• Perimysial (adj): Of or relating to the perimysium.
  • The perimysial tissue was examined for signs of inflammation.

Synonyms

• Connective tissue sheath: A general term for a protective layer of connective tissue.
• Fascial sheath: Specifically refers to a sheath forming part of the fascia.

Related Terms (Not Phrasal Verbs or Idioms)

• Fascicle: A bundle of structures, such as nerve or muscle fibers, enclosed by a sheath of connective tissue (the perimysium in muscle).
• Endomysium: The delicate connective tissue surrounding each individual muscle fiber.
• Epimysium: The fibrous tissue envelope that surrounds a skeletal muscle.

Noun

1. the sheath of connective tissue that covers a bundle of muscle fibers