n, pl  ma*tri*ces  or  matrixes  1 a  :  the intercellular substance in which tissue cells (as of connective tissue) are embedded  b  :  the thickened epithelium at the base of a fingernail or toenail from which new nail substance develops - called also nail bed , nail matrix   2  :  something (as a surrounding or pervading substance or element) within which something else originates or takes form or develops  3  :  a mass by which something is enclosed or in which something is embedded : esp  :  an external lightly staining layer presumably composed of deoxyribonucleic acid and basic proteins that is held to surround the chromonemata of a fully differentiated chromosome  4 a  :  a strip or band placed so as to serve as a retaining outer wall of a tooth in filling a cavity  b  :  a metal or porcelain pattern in which an inlay is cast or fused  5  :  the substrate on or within which a fungus grows .
 
 
 
Published under license with Merriam-Webster, Incorporated.  © 1997-2024.