: either of two small glands lying on either side of the male urethra below the prostate gland and discharging a secretion into the semen

called also bulbourethral gland

compare bartholin's gland

Word History

Etymology

William Cowper †1709 English surgeon

First Known Use

1738, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of Cowper's gland was in 1738

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Cowper's gland.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Cowper%27s%20gland. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

Kids Definition

: either of two small glands that empty into the male urethra

Medical Definition

: either of two small glands of which one lies on each side of the male urethra below the prostate gland and discharges a secretion into the semen

called also bulbourethral gland, gland of Cowper

compare bartholin's gland

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