1. the three protective membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord
Usage: medical; anatomy; plural form

Examples

• The meninges consist of the dura mater, arachnoid mater, and pia mater.
• Meningitis is an inflammation of the meninges.
• The surgeon carefully examined the meninges during the brain operation.
• Cerebrospinal fluid circulates between layers of the meninges.
• A tear in the meninges can cause serious complications.
• The meninges provide crucial protection for the central nervous system.