Definition

1. Noun:
   • An exocrine gland: A gland that secretes its products, such as enzymes, sweat, or saliva, to an epithelial surface (either directly or via a duct/tube) rather than into the bloodstream.

Usage

• The term "duct gland" is a technical or anatomical term used to classify glands based on their method of secretion.
• It is used to distinguish these glands from "ductless glands" (endocrine glands), which secrete hormones directly into the blood.

Examples

• Noun:
  • Sweat glands and salivary glands are examples of duct glands.
  • The pancreas functions as both a duct gland (exocrine) and a ductless gland (endocrine).

Advanced Usage

• "Exocrine gland" as a synonym: In precise anatomical and biological contexts, "exocrine gland" is the more commonly used term. "Duct gland" serves as a descriptive synonym emphasizing the presence of a duct.
  • Sebaceous glands are exocrine, or duct, glands that secrete sebum onto the skin.

Variants and Related Words

• Exocrine (adj): Pertaining to glands that secrete via a duct.
  • Exocrine function is crucial for digestion.
• Ductless gland (n): The antonym; an endocrine gland.
  • The thyroid is a ductless gland.

Synonyms

• Exocrine gland: The direct and most precise synonym.
• Gland with a duct: A descriptive synonym.

Related Phrases / Compound Terms

• Compound Gland: A gland whose secretory units are branched (e.g., the submandibular salivary gland). This is a subtype of exocrine/duct glands.
• Simple Gland: A gland with an unbranched duct (e.g., some sweat glands). This is also a subtype.

Noun

1. a gland that secretes externally through a duct