Definition

Noun: A mandibular gland is one of a pair of salivary glands located inside the lower jaw (mandible). It is a major salivary gland responsible for producing a significant portion of saliva, particularly during sleep. It secretes saliva into the mouth through a duct that opens under the tongue.

Examples

• The mandibular gland is also clinically known as the submandibular gland.
• Inflammation of the mandibular gland can cause swelling and pain under the jaw.
• The mandibular gland produces a mixed serous and mucous secretion.

Advanced Usage

• In anatomical terminology, the mandibular gland is precisely termed the .
• The duct of the mandibular gland (Wharton's duct) opens at the sublingual caruncle beside the frenulum of the tongue.

Variants and Related Words

• Submandibular gland (n): The full anatomical term for the mandibular gland.
• Submandibular (adj): Pertaining to the area beneath the mandible, e.g., .

Synonyms

• Submandibular gland
• Submaxillary gland (an older, less precise term)

Related Phrases

• Mandibular duct: The excretory duct of the mandibular gland.
• Salivary calculus: A stone that can form within the mandibular gland or its duct, causing obstruction.

Noun

1. a salivary gland inside the lower jaw on either side that produces most of the nocturnal saliva; discharges saliva into the mouth under the tongue