LACTIFEROUS Meaning and
Definition
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Lactiferous is an adjective that refers to something related to the secretion or production of milk. Derived from the Latin words "lactis" meaning milk and "ferre" meaning to bear or carry, lactiferous describes structures or organisms that are involved in the formation, transport, or storage of milk.
In biology, lactiferous is commonly used to describe structures found in various plants and animals. In plants, lactiferous structures are specialized ducts or vessels that transport latex or milky fluids, which may contain toxic or medicinal substances. For example, the lactiferous vessels in the stems of the opium poppy are responsible for the transportation of latex, which is used in the production of morphine and other opioids.
In animals, lactiferous is frequently used to describe the milk ducts or mammary glands responsible for the production and secretion of milk. The lactiferous ducts connect the mammary glands to the nipple, allowing for the transport of milk from the glandular tissue to the mouth of the nursing offspring. Mammals such as humans, cows, and dogs have well-developed lactiferous systems that facilitate the nourishment of their young.
Overall, the term lactiferous encompasses a broad range of structures involved in the production, transportation, and secretion of milk in both plants and animals.
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Bearing or producing milk or milky juice.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for LACTIFEROUS
Etymology of LACTIFEROUS
The word "lactiferous" is derived from Latin. It is a combination of two Latin words: "lactis" which means "milk" and "ferre" which means "to carry" or "to bear". When combined, "lactiferus" (which is the Latin form of "lactiferous") literally translates to "milk-carrying" or "milk-bearing". In English, "lactiferous" is typically used to describe structures or vessels that carry or produce milk.
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