Definition

Noun: A small, tubular anatomical structure that serves as a drainage channel for tears. It connects the lacrimal sac (which collects tears from the eye's surface) to the nasal cavity, allowing tears to drain from the eye into the nose.

Usage

The term nasolacrimal duct is used specifically in anatomical, medical, and biological contexts to describe this precise part of the tear drainage system. - It is a singular, countable noun. - It is often discussed in relation to conditions like blockage or infection.

Examples

• The ophthalmologist explained that a blocked nasolacrimal duct was causing the infant's constant watery eyes.
• During the dissection, the students carefully identified the nasolacrimal duct.
• Surgery may be required to open a congenitally obstructed nasolacrimal duct.

Advanced Usage

• Nasolacrimal duct obstruction: A common condition where the duct is blocked, preventing normal tear drainage.
• Nasolacrimal duct probing: A medical procedure to open a blocked duct using a thin instrument.

Variants and Related Words

• Nasolacrimal (adjective): Pertaining to the nose and the lacrimal (tear) apparatus. (e.g., the system).
• Lacrimal duct: A more general term that can refer to any duct in the tear system, but is not synonymous with the nasolacrimal duct, which is the final, specific segment.

Synonyms

• Tear duct: This is a common layperson's term. However, "tear duct" can vaguely refer to any part of the tear drainage system, while nasolacrimal duct is anatomically precise.

Notes on Meaning

The nasolacrimal duct has one primary anatomical meaning. It is a specific structure within the larger nasolacrimal apparatus, which includes the puncta, canaliculi, and lacrimal sac.

Noun

1. a duct that carries tears from the lacrimal sac to the nasal cavity