arachnoid
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /əˈræk.nɔɪd/
KK: /əˈræk.nɔɪd/
adjective
Definition
Relating to a thin, delicate membrane that surrounds the brain and spinal cord, or resembling arachnids, which are spider-like creatures.
Example
The arachnoid layer protects the brain and spinal cord from injury.
Conversation
Did you see that documentary about the brain?
No, I missed it. What was it about?
They explained how the arachnoid layer protects the spinal cord.
That sounds fascinating! I've always been curious about brain anatomy.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
delicate
thin
fibrous
Antonyms
thick
coarse
solid
noun
Definition
A thin, delicate membrane that surrounds the brain and spinal cord, located between two other membranes called the pia mater and dura mater.
Example
The doctor explained that the arachnoid is one of the protective layers around the brain.
Conversation
Did you know that the arachnoid membrane is crucial for protecting the brain?
Really? I had no idea it played such an important role.
Yeah, it's like a protective layer between the brain and the skull.
Root Explanation
Arachnoid → It is formed from "arachne" (from Greek, meaning spider) and "-oid" (meaning resembling or like). The word "arachnoid" refers to something that resembles a spider, particularly in its web-like appearance, as seen in the arachnoid mater, a layer of the meninges in the brain.
Memory Tip
Imagine a spider's web when you think of 'arachnoid' — 'arachne' means spider, and '-oid' means resembling. This helps you remember that arachnoid refers to something that looks like a spider or its web.
Visually Confused Words
subarachnoid
trachinoid
batrachoid
varanoid
paranoid
characinoid