| Term Name: | osteocyte |
|---|---|
| Synonyms: | bone cell |
| Definition: | A mature osteoblast that has become embedded in the bone matrix. They occupy a small cavity, called lacuna, in the matrix and are connected to adjacent osteocytes via protoplasmic projections called canaliculi. |
| Ontology: | Cell Ontology [CL:0000137] |