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Glite Dictionary
Cowper's gland

Cowper's gland

8.1
Two small glands in men that make fluid to lubricate the tube for urine and sperm during ejaculation
  • noun
  • /ˈkaʊpərz ɡlænd/
  • Specialized
translation icon : glándula de Cowper
  • Doctors sometimes refer to the Cowper's gland as the bulbourethral gland.

Examples

  • The Cowper's gland secretes a fluid that helps lubricate the urethra during ejaculation.

  • Inflammation of the Cowper's gland is known as cowperitis and can cause discomfort.

  • The Cowper's gland produces a pre-ejaculate fluid.

  • Each Cowper's gland is about the size of a pea.

  • The Cowper's gland secretes a clear fluid that neutralizes acidity in the urethra before ejaculation.

  • Inflammation of the Cowper's gland can lead to pain and disruption in the male reproductive system.

  • Surgeons may need to locate the Cowper's gland during procedures involving the male reproductive organs.

Synonyms

bulbourethral gland
vsCowper's gland
  • Specialized
8.1

One of two small male glands that make fluid to lubricate the urethra before ejaculation

is another common name used for the same glands in medical contexts

Surface Forms

Cowper's gland singular
Cowper's glands plural

Morphology

Cowper's + gland

This is an eponymic anatomical term: the possessive 'Cowper's' is a proper name and does not convey information about location or function, while 'gland' only signals a secreting organ. Because the specific identity and role (the bulbourethral gland in the male reproductive system) cannot be derived from the constituents, a B1 learner who only knows the parts would not infer the full meaning.

Etymology

Cowper's gland is 'named after' the English doctor William Cowper, who was the first to describe these tiny glands. These glands make a small fluid that helps clean and lubricate the urethra, so the name now refers to that specific part of the male body.