Definition of gland
1a : a specialized cell, group of cells, or organ of endothelial origin that selectively removes materials from the blood, concentrates or alters them, and secretes them for further use in the body or for elimination from the body — compare endocrine gland, exocrine glandb : any of various animal structures suggestive of glands though not secretory in function
2 : any of various secreting organs (such as a nectary) of plants
Explore Merriam-Webster
Origin and Etymology of gland
French glande, from Old French, glandular swelling on the neck, gland, ultimately from Latin gland-, glans acorn; akin to Greek balanos acorn
Other Anatomy Terms
gland
Definition of gland
1 : a device for preventing leakage of fluid past a joint in machinery
2 : the movable part of a stuffing box by which the packing is compressed
Origin and Etymology of gland
origin unknown
GLAND Defined for Kids
gland
playDefinition of gland for Students
: a cluster of cells or an organ in the body that produces a substance (as saliva, sweat, or bile) to be used by the body or given off from it
Medical Dictionary
gland
playMedical Definition of gland
1: a cell, group of cells, or organ of endothelial origin that selectively removes materials from the blood, concentrates or alters them, and secretes them for further use in the body or for elimination from the body
2: any of various animal structures (as a lymph node) suggestive of glands though not secretory in function
Learn More about gland
-
See words that rhyme with gland Spanish Central: Translation of gland Nglish: Translation of gland for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of gland for Arabic speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about gland
Seen and Heard
What made you want to look up gland? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Writing? Check your grammar now!