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Glite Dictionary
lachrymal gland

lachrymal gland

8.4
A small part near the top outer corner of each eye that makes tears to keep the eye wet
  • noun
  • /ˈlækrɪməl ɡlænd/
  • UK
translation icon : glándula lagrimal
  • Inflammation of the lachrymal gland can lead to swelling and discomfort.

Examples

  • The lachrymal gland produces tears to keep the eyes moist.

  • Doctors examined her lachrymal gland when she complained of persistent dry eyes.

  • The lachrymal gland is essential for maintaining healthy eyes by producing tears.

  • She felt irritation in her lachrymal gland after the long day.

  • The doctor explained that the lachrymal gland helps produce tears to keep the eyes moist.

  • When her lachrymal glands are active, she finds it easier to see in bright sunlight.

  • He learned that the lachrymal gland is crucial for lubricating the surface of the eye.

Synonyms

lacrimal gland
vslachrymal gland
  • Specialized
1 5.8

A small part near the top outer corner of the eye that makes tears

adds lubrication and protection for the eye as part of its role
tear gland
vslachrymal gland
  • Specialized
2.7

A small part of the eye that makes tears

is specifically in the upper outer eye rather than anywhere inside the eye

Surface Forms

lachrymal gland singular
lachrymal glands plural

Morphology

lachrymal + gland

The meaning is directly compositional: 'lachrymal' means related to tears and 'gland' is an organ that secretes fluids, so 'lachrymal gland' straightforwardly denotes the tear-producing gland. This follows a regular descriptive noun phrase pattern (adjective + noun) and has clear parallels in other languages, so a B1 learner who knows both constituents would readily understand it.

Etymology

Lachrymal gland comes from an old Latin word for 'tear'; lachrymal means 'tear' and gland is a small part of the body that makes liquid. So, lachrymal gland literally means the 'tear gland' and explains why it makes tears to keep the eye wet and protected.