(also thymus gland)
Definition of thymus in English:
noun (plural thymi ˈθʌɪmʌɪ)
A lymphoid organ situated in the neck of vertebrates which produces T-lymphocytes for the immune system. The human thymus becomes much smaller at the approach of puberty.
- Primary lymphoid organs in the thymus and bone marrow constitute the major site of lymphocyte development.
- The lymphatic system consists of lymph nodes and vessels, the thymus, spleen and bone marrow.
- About 10% of patients have a benign tumor of the thymus gland, a lymph gland that usually disappears at puberty.
Late 16th century (denoting a growth or tumour resembling a bud): from Greek thumos 'excrescence like a thyme bud, thymus gland'.
Words that rhyme with thymusMimas, primus, timeous
Definition of thymus in:
- US English dictionary
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