Definition

Noun: A small gland located near the opening of the vagina (the vestibule). Its primary function is to secrete a lubricating fluid, particularly during sexual arousal and intercourse.

Usage

The term is used in anatomical, medical, and biological contexts to describe a specific structure of the female reproductive system. It is a technical term.

Examples

• The vestibular glands provide essential lubrication.
• Inflammation of a vestibular gland can cause discomfort.
• The secretions from the vestibular glands facilitate sexual intercourse.

Advanced Usage

• The term is often specified as the greater vestibular gland (Bartholin's gland) or the lesser vestibular glands.
• In medical diagnoses, conditions like vestibular gland cyst or Bartholinitis (inflammation of Bartholin's gland) are discussed.

Variants and Related Words

• Bartholin's gland: The common name for the pair of greater vestibular glands.
• Greater vestibular gland: The larger of the vestibular glands.
• Lesser vestibular glands: The smaller, numerous vestibular glands.

Synonyms

• Bartholin's gland (specifically for the greater vestibular glands).
• Vaginal gland (a less specific, broader term).

Notes on Meaning

This term refers exclusively to glands in the female reproductive anatomy. There are no idioms or phrasal verbs associated with this specific anatomical term.

Noun

1. a gland that opens into the vestibule of the vagina; secretions lubricate the vagina during coitus