exocrine gland
LowTechnical/Formal
Definition
Meaning
A gland that secretes its products (e.g., sweat, saliva, digestive enzymes) through a duct onto an epithelial surface, either internally (into the gastrointestinal tract) or externally (onto the skin).
Part of the exocrine system, these glands are involved in non-hormonal functions such as lubrication, digestion, temperature regulation, and protection. They are classified by their secretion methods (merocrine, apocrine, holocrine) and contrast with endocrine glands, which secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
The term is almost exclusively used in biological, anatomical, and medical contexts. It denotes a functional classification of glands based on their secretion delivery method (via ducts) and is often taught in contrast to endocrine glands.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant lexical or semantic differences. Spelling and pronunciation are consistent across both varieties for this term.
Connotations
None beyond the technical meaning.
Frequency
Equally low in everyday language but standard in relevant academic and professional fields in both regions.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
The [exocrine gland] secretes [product] into/onto [location].[Organ] contains [exocrine gland] tissue.The [exocrine gland] is affected by [condition].Vocabulary
Synonyms
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Not applicable.
Academic
Core term in biology, anatomy, physiology, and medical studies. Used in textbooks, research papers, and lectures.
Everyday
Virtually never used in casual conversation unless discussing specific medical conditions (e.g., cystic fibrosis).
Technical
Standard term in medical diagnostics, histology, and endocrinology/exocrinology.
Examples
By Part of Speech
adjective
British English
- The exocrine portion of the pancreas is crucial for digestion.
- She studied exocrine secretions in mammals.
American English
- The exocrine function of the sweat glands helps regulate temperature.
- Exocrine disorders can affect nutrient absorption.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- Sweat glands are a type of exocrine gland.
- The body has many exocrine glands.
- Salivary glands are exocrine glands that release enzymes into the mouth.
- Cystic fibrosis primarily affects the exocrine glands, leading to thick mucus.
- The pancreas has both endocrine and exocrine functions; its exocrine component secretes digestive enzymes into the duodenum.
- Histological examination revealed hyperplasia of the exocrine gland tissue.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think 'EXO' (outside) + 'CRINE' (to secrete). Exocrine glands secrete substances OUT to a specific location via ducts, like an EXO delivery service.
Conceptual Metaphor
A factory with a dedicated pipeline (duct) delivering products (secretions) to a specific warehouse (body surface or cavity).
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Direct translation 'экзокринная железа' is accurate and poses no trap.
- Do not confuse with 'железа внешней секреции' which is a descriptive synonym.
Common Mistakes
- Misspelling as 'exocrene gland' or 'exocrin gland'.
- Confusing exocrine (with ducts) with endocrine (ductless) glands.
Practice
Quiz
Which of the following is an example of an exocrine gland?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
The presence of a duct (or system of ducts) that carries the secretion to a specific epithelial surface.
Exocrine glands secrete via ducts to specific locations, while endocrine glands secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream without ducts.
Yes, the pancreas is a classic example. Its exocrine part secretes digestive enzymes, and its endocrine part (islets of Langerhans) secretes hormones like insulin and glucagon.
No, they vary widely and include serous (watery, enzyme-rich), mucous (viscous, mucin-rich), sebaceous (oily), and mixed secretions.