Definition

Noun: A narrow tube or passage in the body, lined with a layer of cells called epithelium, that carries a fluid or other substance from one place to another.

Examples

• The epithelial duct carrying tears from the eye to the nasal cavity can become blocked.
• Saliva travels from the salivary gland to the mouth through a small epithelial duct.
• Obstruction of an epithelial duct in the pancreas can lead to health complications.

Advanced Usage

• In medical terminology, "epithelial duct" is a precise anatomical term. In general contexts, simpler terms like "duct" or "tube" are more common.
• The term emphasizes the structural lining (epithelium) that is a defining characteristic of these bodily passages.

Variants and Related Words

• Duct (n): The most common and general synonym for an epithelial duct.
• Canal (n): Often used for larger or more prominent ducts (e.g., alimentary canal).
• Tube (n): A very general term for any hollow cylindrical structure.
• Passage (n): A general term for a channel through which something can pass.
• Vessel (n): Typically refers to tubes carrying blood (blood vessels) or lymph, which are a specific type of epithelial duct.

Synonyms

• Duct
• Canal
• Tube
• Conduit
• Passage

Related Phrases

• Duct system: A network of interconnected epithelial ducts within an organ or gland.
• Ductal epithelium: The specific layer of epithelial cells lining the duct.

Noun

1. a bodily passage or tube lined with epithelial cells and conveying a secretion or other substance
   • the tear duct was obstructed
   • the alimentary canal
   • poison is released through a channel in the snake's fangs