(1) A soluble case, usually of gelatine, for enclosing small doses of unpleasant medicine. Enteric-coated capsules are treated in such a manner that the ingredients do not come in contact with the acid stomach contents but are only released when the capsule disintegrates in the alkaline contents of the intestine. (2) A fibrous or membranous envelope surrounding various organs, as the spleen, liver or kidney. (3) The ligamentous bag surrounding various joints and attached by its edge to the bones on either side.