The correct spelling of "excretory gland" is /ɪksˈkriːtəri ɡlænd/. The first syllable "ex-" is pronounced like "eks" as in "exotic", and the second part "-cretory" is pronounced like "kree-tuh-ree" to reflect the Latin root "secrete". The final syllable "-gland" is pronounced like "glænd" as in "grand". An excretory gland is a gland that eliminates waste products from the body, such as sweat glands or the liver. Proper spelling and pronunciation of this term is important for clear communication in medical fields.
An excretory gland is defined as a specialized structure in the body that produces and eliminates waste products from the system. These glands are an essential part of the excretory system, which is responsible for removing metabolic waste, toxins, and excess substances from the body.
Excretory glands are found in various locations throughout the body, such as the skin, kidneys, liver, lungs, and intestines. They play a vital role in maintaining homeostasis by regulating the balance of fluids, electrolytes, and pH levels in the body.
The skin acts as an excretory gland through sweat glands, which release sweat that contains water, salts, urea, and other waste products. The kidneys, being the primary excretory organ, filter blood and produce urine to eliminate metabolic waste, excess water, and toxic substances.
The liver, an excretory gland, removes toxins and metabolic byproducts from the bloodstream and excretes them in bile, which is then eliminated through the intestines. The lungs act as excretory organs by eliminating carbon dioxide, a waste product of cellular respiration.
Overall, excretory glands serve a crucial function in maintaining the body's internal environment by eliminating waste and balancing essential physiological factors. Dysfunction or impairment of excretory glands can lead to various health problems, underscoring the significance of these glands for overall well-being.
A gland separating excrementitious or waste material from the blood.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "excretory" originates from the Latin word "excretus", which means "that which is sifted out" or "that which is discharged". It is derived from the verb "excretare", meaning "to sift out" or "to eliminate".
The term "gland" comes from the Latin word "glandula", which refers to a small anatomical structure or an acorn. The Latin word "glandula" is a diminutive form of "glans", meaning "acorn".
Therefore, the combination of the word "excretory" and "gland" in "excretory gland" implies a small anatomical structure responsible for the elimination or discharge of certain substances from the body.