Meaning & Definition of word "Gland"

Gland

/ɡlænd/

1. An organ in the body that secretes particular chemical substances for use in the body or for discharge into the surroundings.
- Example: The thyroid gland regulates metabolism by producing hormones.
2. A similar structure in plants that secretes substances such as resins or essential oils.
- Example: The plant's gland produces a sticky resin that protects it from herbivores.
3. A collection of specialized cells capable of secreting a product or a substance.
- Example: The salivary glands in the mouth help in the digestion of food.
4. A group of cells or tissues that produce and release substances, which may be internal or external to the organism.
- Example: Sweat glands help to regulate body temperature through perspiration.
5. A structure in an animal or plant that is adapted to secretion, often referred to in a broader sense including exocrine and endocrine structures.
- Example: The adrenal gland produces hormones that help the body respond to stress.

From Latin 'glandula', meaning 'small acorn'.

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.

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.

Meaning: A term used informally to refer to a person's capacity for creating or producing something.

Example Sentence: That band really has the gland when it comes to making hits.

Meaning: In slang, referring to one's 'gland' could be a humorous or crude way to refer to a sexual organ.

Example Sentence: After that party, he was bragging about his gland.