Definition

1. Noun:
   • A duct in the mammary gland that carries milk: A lactiferous duct is a specific anatomical tube or channel within the breast tissue. Its primary function is to transport milk produced in the mammary glands toward the nipple.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • A blocked lactiferous duct can cause pain and inflammation during breastfeeding.
  • The surgeon carefully avoided the major lactiferous ducts during the procedure.

Advanced Usage

• Medical/Anatomical Context: The term is almost exclusively used in medical, biological, or anatomical discussions related to mammalian physiology, lactation, and breast health.
  • Mammography can sometimes visualize the architecture of the lactiferous ducts.

Variants and Related Words

• Lactiferous (adj): Pertaining to the secretion or conveyance of milk.
  • The lactiferous system is crucial for infant nutrition.
• Duct (n): A tube or channel for conveying fluid or air.
• Mammary duct: A less specific, alternative term for a duct within the breast.

Synonyms

• Milk duct: A common, non-technical synonym.
• Mammary duct: A broader term that may refer to similar structures.

Related Terms (Not Phrasal Verbs or Idioms)

• Mastitis: Inflammation of breast tissue, often involving a lactiferous duct.
• Lactation: The secretion of milk by the mammary glands.
• Areola: The pigmented area around the nipple, where lactiferous ducts open.

Noun

1. ducts of the mammary gland that carry milk to the nipple