Definition

Noun: A gland that secretes oil. This is a specialized organ in the body of an animal that produces and releases an oily substance, typically for lubrication, waterproofing, or scent marking.

Usage

The term "oil gland" is used to describe a specific biological structure. It is a compound noun where "oil" specifies the type of secretion and "gland" indicates the organ.

Examples

• The oil glands in human skin help to keep it moisturized.
• Birds have a preen gland, which is a type of oil gland located near the base of their tail.
• The function of the oil gland is to secrete a substance that waterproofs the feathers.

Advanced Usage

• Sebaceous gland is the specific medical term for the oil glands in mammalian skin.
  • Acne can occur when sebaceous glands become clogged with oil and dead skin cells.

Variants and Related Words

• Sebaceous gland: (n) The specific type of oil gland in the skin of mammals that secretes sebum.
• Uropygial gland: (n) The specific term for the oil gland (preen gland) found in most birds.
• Gland: (n) A general term for any organ that secretes particular chemical substances.

Synonyms

• Sebaceous gland (for mammals)
• Preen gland (for birds)

Different Meanings

The term "oil gland" has a single, specific biological meaning. It does not commonly have other definitions or idiomatic uses.

Noun

1. a gland that secretes oil