gland

noun (1)

\ ˈgland

Definition of gland

(Entry 1 of 2)

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 gland

b : 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

gland

noun (2)

Definition of gland (Entry 2 of 2)

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

Other Words from gland Phrases Containing gland Learn More About gland

History and Etymology for gland

Noun (1)

French glande, from Old French, glandular swelling on the neck, gland, ultimately from Latin gland-, glans acorn; akin to Greek balanos acorn

Noun (2)

origin unknown

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Dictionary Entries Near gland

glancing boom

gland

glandered

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Cite this Entry

“Gland.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gland. Accessed 12 Aug. 2022.

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More Definitions for gland

gland

noun

\ ˈgland

Kids Definition of gland

: 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

gland

noun

\ ˈgland

Medical 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