Cortex (noun)

1. The outer layer of an organ, such as the brain or kidney.
2. The outer layer of the cerebrum in the brain, which is responsible for processing information from the senses and controlling movement.

Origin:

Late 19th century: from latin, "bark, rind", used in botany to mean "the outer layer of an organ or part".

Examples:

1. The cortex of the brain is responsible for higher cognitive functions.
2. The cortex of the kidney is responsible for filtering waste from the blood.
3. Damage to the cortex can result in loss of motor control.
4. The cerebral cortex is divided into several functional areas.
5. The cortex of the brain is divided into several lobes.