# gland

/ˈɡɫænd/ (US) · /ɡlˈænd/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/gland
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. biological organ

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

a part of the body that creates and sends out chemicals, such as hormones, sweat, or saliva.

For teachers: an organ or group of cells that synthesizes chemical substances for release into the bloodstream or onto a body surface.

- The thyroid gland in your neck helps control how your body uses energy.
- The endocrine system consists of several glands that secrete hormones directly into the circulatory system to regulate distant target organs.

Usage: Often used with specific names like 'adrenal gland', 'sweat gland', or 'lymph gland'.

### 2. plant structure

noun · CEFR C2 · Technical

a small part on the surface of a plant that produces substances like oil or nectar.

For teachers: a secretory hair or cell on the surface of a plant organ.

- The leaves of the plant are covered in tiny glands that produce a sticky liquid.
- Microscopic examination revealed specialized glands on the trichomes that produce the plant's characteristic aromatic oils.

### 3. mechanical seal

noun · CEFR C2 · Technical

a part in a machine that stops liquid from leaking out around a moving rod or shaft.

For teachers: a device or stuffing box used to seal a rotating or reciprocating shaft against fluid leakage.

- The plumber tightened the gland on the tap to stop it from dripping.
- The engineer inspected the packing gland to ensure that the propeller shaft remained watertight during high-speed operation.

## Examples

- The sweat glands in your skin help keep you cool.
- The doctor checked the patient's neck to see if the lymph glands were swollen from the infection.
- The endocrine system consists of several major glands that secrete hormones directly into the circulatory system to regulate distant target organs and maintain internal homeostasis.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.