Explore the definition of the cell wall , structure, layers, compositions and functions across plants, fungi and microbes. Learn the structure of the cell wall with easy explanation, diagram, and key functions for students. Revise differences from animal cell . In this article we will discuss about:- 1. Meaning of Cell Wall 2. Functions of Cell Wall 3. Chemical Composition 4. Structure 5. Cell Coat. Meaning of Cell Wall : It is the outer rigid protective supportive and semi transparent covering of plant cells, fungi and some protists. Cell wall was first seen in cork cells by Hooke in 1665. Its thickness varies in different types of cells from 0.1 µm to 10 µm. Cell wall is a non-living extracellular secretion or matrix of the cell which is closely ... The cell wall is the outermost protective layer of the cell in plant cells, bacteria, fungal cells, and protists.