| a type of epithelial cell that secretes mucin, so called after its shape. |
| goblet cell n. Any of the specialized epithelial cells found in the mucous membrane of the stomach, intestines, and respiratory passages that secrete mucus. [From its shape.] |
goblet cell gob·let cell (gŏb'lĭt)
n.
A mucus-secreting epithelial cell that distends with mucin before secretion and collapses to a goblet shape after secretion. Also called beaker cell.
goblet cell  (gŏb'lĭt) Pronunciation Key
Any of the specialized epithelial cells, such as those found in the mucous membrane of the stomach, intestines, and respiratory passages, that secrete mucus. The goblet cells distend with mucin before secretion and collapse to a goblet shape after secretion. |