# squamous

/ˈskweɪməs/ (US) · CEFR C2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/squamous
Updated: 2026-10-15

## Definition

flat and thin like tiny scales. Doctors use it to describe certain skin and mouth cells.

For teachers: covered with or made of thin, flat, scale-like structures. Most often describes flattened epithelial cells in skin and mucous membranes.

## Examples

- The doctor checks the squamous cells in the skin.
- The biopsy showed normal squamous cells lining the mouth with no sign of abnormal growth.
- The pathologist noted that the squamous lining of the oesophagus showed early changes linked to chronic irritation.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.