lachrymal gland
Definition
- Noun:
- A gland that produces tears: The lachrymal gland is an organ located above the outer corner of each eye. Its primary function is to secrete tears, which keep the surface of the eye moist, clean, and lubricated.
Usage
- The term "lachrymal gland" is used in anatomical, medical, and biological contexts to refer specifically to the tear-producing gland.
- It is a formal term. In everyday conversation, people more commonly refer to "tear ducts" or simply "the glands that make tears," though these can refer to different but related structures.
Examples
- Noun:
- Inflammation of the lachrymal gland can lead to dry eyes and discomfort.
- The doctor explained that a blocked lachrymal gland was causing the excessive tearing.
Advanced Usage
- "Lachrymal gland secretion": refers to the tears produced by the gland.
- The composition of lachrymal gland secretion includes water, salts, and proteins.
- "Lachrymal gland dysfunction": a medical condition where the gland does not function properly.
- Sjögren's syndrome is an autoimmune disorder that can cause lachrymal gland dysfunction.
Variants and Related Words
- Lacrimal gland: This is the more common modern spelling. "Lachrymal" and "lacrimal" are used interchangeably, with "lacrimal" being preferred in contemporary medical texts.
- The lacrimal gland is part of the lacrimal apparatus.
- Tear gland: A less formal, descriptive synonym.
- Lacrimal apparatus: The entire system responsible for tear production and drainage, which includes the lachrymal gland, ducts, and sac.
Synonyms
- Tear gland: A direct, descriptive synonym.
- Lacrimal gland: The standard variant spelling.
Related Terms (Not Phrasal Verbs or Idioms)
- Lacrimal sac: The structure that collects tears from the eye before they drain into the nasal cavity.
- Lacrimal duct: The small tube that drains tears from the eye's surface.
- Basal tearing: The constant, low-level secretion from the lachrymal gland that lubricates the eye.
- Reflex tearing: The increased secretion of tears in response to an irritant or emotion.
Noun
-
any of the glands in the eyes that secrete tears
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