1. a tiny pore in the surface of a leaf or stem that allows gas exchange
Usage: biology
2. an artificial opening made in the body during surgery
Usage: medical

Examples

• The plant’s stomata open during the day to allow carbon dioxide to enter.
• Guard cells control whether each stoma opens or closes.
• Water vapor escapes through the stomata on the leaf surface.
• The surgeon created a stoma to allow waste to exit the body.
• She learned to care for her stoma after the operation.
• The stoma bag needs to be changed regularly.
• Microscopic examination revealed the stomata were functioning normally.