tissue
UK: ˈtɪʃ.uː | US: ˈtɪʃ.uː
n. a group of similar cells forming a structural material in an organism
n. a thin, soft paper used for hygiene or cleaning
n. an intricate network or structure (e.g., "a tissue of lies")
tissue = tiss<weave> + ue<noun suffix>
- tiss<weave>: Derived from Old French tissu (woven fabric), from Latin texere (to weave).
- ue: A nominal suffix in French, often retained in English borrowings.
Etymology Origin:
The word tissue traces back to the Latin texere (to weave), reflecting its original association with woven fabrics. Over time, it expanded metaphorically to describe biological structures (like cellular tissues) and delicate materials (like paper tissues), emphasizing interconnectedness or fragility.
The doctor examined the damaged muscle tissue under a microscope.
She grabbed a tissue to wipe her tears.
His excuse was a tissue of lies, easily torn apart.
The artist used tissue paper to create layered textures.
Plant tissues transport water and nutrients throughout the organism.