URETER Meaning and
Definition
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The ureter is a tubular structure that forms part of the urinary system in humans and other vertebrate animals. It is a slender, muscular tube that connects the kidneys to the urinary bladder. There are two ureters in the body, one for each kidney, and they play a crucial role in the excretory function of the urinary system.
The ureters are responsible for transporting urine from the kidneys to the urinary bladder. Once urine is produced in the kidneys, it flows down the ureters in a peristaltic wave-like motion, propelled by the contraction of the smooth muscles in the walls of the ureters. This muscular contraction helps to move the urine along and prevents it from flowing back up into the kidneys.
The ureters are composed of three layers: an inner mucosal layer, a middle muscular layer, and an outer fibrous layer. The mucosal layer contains specialized cells that prevent backward flow of urine. The muscular layer consists of smooth muscles that contract and relax to facilitate urine transport. The fibrous layer provides structural support and protection to the ureters.
Overall, the ureters serve a vital function in the urinary system by transporting urine from the kidneys to the urinary bladder for storage and eventual elimination from the body. Any obstruction or dysfunction in the ureters can lead to urinary retention, kidney damage, or other urinary disorders.
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The tube conducting the urine from the kidney to the bladder.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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In anat., the tube or duct that conveys the urine from the kidney to the bladder.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for URETER
Etymology of URETER
The word "ureter" is derived from the Ancient Greek word "oureter" (οὐρητήρ), which is composed of two parts: "ouros" (οὖρος) meaning "urine" and "ētēr" (ἠτήρ) meaning "conduit" or "passage". Therefore, the etymology of "ureter" essentially means "urine passage" or "urine conduit", reflecting the role of these tubular structures in transporting urine from the kidneys to the bladder.
Similar spelling words for URETER
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