Hyaline

Definition

A glassy or translucent appearance often describing the cuticle or integument of certain insects or the exoskeleton of certain arachnids.

Etymology

From Greek 'hualinos', meaning 'of glass', derived from 'hualos', meaning 'glass'.

Example

The wings of some dragonflies have a hyaline quality, making them appear almost transparent.

Synonyms

• Glassy
• Translucent

Related Terms

• Cuticle
• Integument
• Exoskeleton

Usage Notes

Hyaline is often used to describe a specific transparent or semi-transparent quality in certain anatomical structures.