gland
/ɡlænd/ noun C1- A specialized cell, group of cells, or organ of endothelial origin in the human or animal body that synthesizes a chemical substance, such as hormones or breast milk, and releases it, often into the bloodstream (endocrine gland) or into cavities inside the body or its outer surface (exocrine gland).
- A structure resembling a gland, especially a lymph node.
- A secretory structure on the surface of an organ.
- A stuffing box used to seal a rotating or reciprocating shaft against a fluid. · The gland of a tap/faucet is usually packed with string which has been soaked in tallow or similar grease.
Plural glands
From the library
“His poor mother,” murmured the major, trying to get the lachrymal gland in operation, so as to moisten the corner of his eye with a false tear.
He was truly crying, but it would have been difficult to say whether joy or the onions produced the greatest effect on the lachrymal glands of the old innkeeper of the Pont-du-Gard.
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