Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Not having a duct or tube for passage or secretion: Describes a structure, especially a gland, that lacks a duct to carry its secretions to a specific surface or cavity. Its secretions are released directly into the bloodstream or surrounding tissues.

Examples of Usage

• Adjective:
  • The thyroid is a classic example of a ductless gland.
  • These ductless structures release hormones directly into the circulatory system.
  • Unlike salivary glands, endocrine glands are ductless.

Advanced Usage

• "ductless gland": A standard anatomical term synonymous with "endocrine gland." It refers to any gland that secretes hormones directly into the blood or lymph rather than through a duct.
  • The pituitary and adrenal glands are both ductless glands.

Variants and Related Words

• Duct (noun): A tube or channel for carrying a fluid or other substance.
  • Tears flow from the lacrimal gland through a small duct.
• Endocrine (adjective): Relating to or denoting glands which secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream.
  • The endocrine system regulates many bodily functions.

Synonyms

• Endocrine (when referring specifically to glands).
• Internally secreting.

Antonyms

• Ducted.
• Exocrine (referring to glands that secrete via ducts).

Adjective

1. not having a duct
   • ductless glands