cortex

 
Pronunciation: /ˈkɔːtɛks/

noun (plural cortices /-tɪˌsiːz/)

  • 1 Anatomy the outer layer of the cerebrum (the cerebral cortex), composed of folded grey matter and playing an important role in consciousness.
  • an outer layer of another organ or body part such as a kidney (the renal cortex), the cerebellum, or a hair.
  • 2 Botany an outer layer of tissue immediately below the epidermis of a stem or root.

Derivatives

cortical

Pronunciation: /ˈkɔːtɪk(ə)l/
adjective

Origin:

late Middle English: from Latin, literally 'bark'