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Translate files Gland
/ɡlænd/
Meaning & Definition
noun
An organ in the body that secretes particular chemical substances for use in the body or for discharge into the surroundings.
The thyroid gland regulates metabolism by producing hormones.
A similar structure in plants that secretes substances such as resins or essential oils.
The plant's gland produces a sticky resin that protects it from herbivores.
A collection of specialized cells capable of secreting a product or a substance.
The salivary glands in the mouth help in the digestion of food.
A group of cells or tissues that produce and release substances, which may be internal or external to the organism.
Sweat glands help to regulate body temperature through perspiration.
A structure in an animal or plant that is adapted to secretion, often referred to in a broader sense including exocrine and endocrine structures.
The adrenal gland produces hormones that help the body respond to stress.
Etymology
From Latin 'glandula', meaning 'small acorn'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
milk gland
A gland that produces milk, especially in mammals.
sebaceous gland
A small gland in the skin that secretes oil.
endocrine gland
A gland that releases hormones directly into the bloodstream.
Related Words
hormone
A signaling molecule produced by glands that regulates physiology and behavior.
tissue
A group of cells with a similar structure and function.
duct
A tube or channel for conveying fluids.
Slang Meanings
A term used informally to refer to a person's capacity for creating or producing something.
That band really has the gland when it comes to making hits.
In slang, referring to one's 'gland' could be a humorous or crude way to refer to a sexual organ.
After that party, he was bragging about his gland.