cortex

The outer layer of an organ, such as the brain or a kidney.

• The cortex is an outer layer.
• The scan showed damage to the cerebral cortex.
• The kidney has a cortex surrounding its inner region.

Common phrases: cerebral cortex, renal cortex, motor cortex

A layer inside a plant stem or root, between its outer skin and its transport tissues.

• The root cortex stores food.
• Water passes through the cortex toward the central tissues.
• They examined cells from the stem cortex.

Common phrases: root cortex, stem cortex, plant cortex

The natural outer covering of a piece of flint stone.

• The flint still has its cortex.
• The maker removed the cortex before shaping the tool.
• White cortex covered one side of the stone.

Similar words: crust

Common phrases: flint cortex, weathered cortex, remaining cortex