1. n. (pl. pleurae)
1. each of a pair of serous membranes lining the thorax and enveloping the lungs in mammals.
2 lateral extensions of the body-wall in arthropods.
Derivatives:
pleural adj.
Etymology: med.L f. Gk, side of the body, rib 2.
pleurisy n. inflammation of the pleura, marked by pain in the chest or side, fever, etc.
Derivatives:
pleuritic adj.
Etymology: ME f. OF pleurisie f. LL pleurisis alt. f. L pleuritis f. Gk (as PLEURA(1))