ground substance

noun

, Biology.

1. Also called matrix. the homogeneous substance in which the fibers and cells of connective tissue are embedded.
2. Also called hyaloplasm. the clear portion of the cell cytoplasm; cytosol.

ground substance

1. The intercellular material in which the cells and fibers of connective tissue are embedded, composed largely of glycosaminoglycans, metabolites, water, and ions.
2. The clear, fluid portion of cytoplasm as distinguished from the organelles and other cell components.

Word History and Origins

Origin of ground substance¹

First recorded in 1880–85

Example Sentences

Marriage and the begetting and care of children, is the very ground substance in the life of the community.

From Project Gutenberg

The ground-substance is in small amount in connective tissues proper, and is obscured by a mass of fibers.

From Project Gutenberg

All these tissues consist of a ground-substance, or matrix, cells, and fibers.

From Project Gutenberg