caul

/kɔ:l/

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Word: Caul

Part of Speech: Noun

Basic Definition: A "caul" is a thin, membrane-like layer that can sometimes cover a baby’s head when they are born. It is part of the protective layers that surround embryos (developing babies) in many animals, including humans.

Usage Instructions:

• "Caul" is a specific term used mostly in medical or biological contexts.
• It is not commonly used in everyday conversation.

Example Sentence:

• "The doctor noticed that the baby was born with a caul, which is quite rare."

Advanced Usage:

In more advanced contexts, "caul" can refer to: - The part of the peritoneum (a membrane in the abdomen) that is attached to the stomach and intestines.

Word Variants:

• There are no direct variants of the word "caul," but it is sometimes seen in plural form as "cauls" when referring to multiple instances.

Different Meanings:

• In some cultures, a baby born with a caul is thought to have special luck or abilities.

Synonyms:

• There are no direct synonyms for "caul," but related terms might include:
  • Membrane
  • Amniotic sac (though this refers to a different structure)

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• There are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs that include the word "caul." However, it can be used in phrases like:
  • "Born with a caul" (indicating a baby born with this membrane).

Summary:

The word "caul" is primarily a medical term that describes a specific type of membrane associated with embryos. While it has a clear definition, it is not frequently used in everyday language.

Academic

Noun

1. the inner membrane of embryos in higher vertebrates (especially when covering the head at birth)
2. part of the peritoneum attached to the stomach and to the colon and covering the intestines

Synonyms

• veil
• embryonic membrane
• greater omentum
• gastrocolic omentum