What is Ectoplasm?

ec.to.plasm (ěk'tə-plāz'əm)n.

1. Biology The outer portion of the continuous phase of cytoplasm of a cell, sometimes distinguishable as a somewhat rigid, gelled layer beneath the cell membrane.
2. a.)The visible substance believed to emanate from the body of a spiritualistic medium during communication with the dead.
   b.)An immaterial or ethereal substance, especially the transparent corporeal presence of a spirit or ghost.
   

ec'to·plas'mic adj.

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The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition Copyright © 2006 by Houghton Mifflin Company.Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.