bulbourethral gland
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: 1. A small exocrine gland in the male reproductive system: Specifically, either of a pair of glands located below the prostate gland, near the base of the penis. They secrete a clear, viscous fluid that lubricates and neutralizes residual acidity in the urethra, preparing it for the passage of semen.
Usage
- The bulbourethral gland is an integral part of the male reproductive anatomy.
- During sexual arousal, the bulbourethral gland releases its fluid.
Examples
- The fluid secreted by the bulbourethral gland is a component of pre-ejaculate.
- An infection can sometimes affect the bulbourethral gland.
Advanced Usage
- Clinical context: In medicine, conditions such as Cowperitis (inflammation of the bulbourethral gland) are discussed.
- Comparative anatomy: The bulbourethral gland is developmentally homologous to the Bartholin's gland in females.
Variants and Related Words
- Cowper's gland: This is a common synonym for the bulbourethral gland, named after the anatomist William Cowper.
- Bulbourethral: (Adjective) Pertaining to the bulbourethral gland, e.g., .
Synonyms
- Cowper's gland
Notes on Meaning
This term refers exclusively to a specific anatomical structure. It does not have idiomatic or phrasal verb uses. Its primary and only meaning is within the context of male reproductive biology.
Noun
- either of two glands that discharge a component of seminal fluid into the urethra; homologous to Bartholin's gland in the female