sebaceous glands: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowTechnical/Scientific/Medical
Quick answer
What does “sebaceous glands” mean?
Small skin glands that secrete an oily or waxy substance (sebum) to lubricate and waterproof the skin and hair.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
Small skin glands that secrete an oily or waxy substance (sebum) to lubricate and waterproof the skin and hair.
These glands are part of the pilosebaceous unit, which includes the hair follicle and hair shaft. Overactivity or blockage can lead to skin conditions such as acne. They are distributed over the entire body except the palms and soles, with the highest concentration on the face and scalp.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage. Spelling of related words like 'oily'/'olly' or minor pronunciation variations do not affect the term itself.
Connotations
Neutral and technical in both varieties. Carries no cultural or stylistic connotations beyond its scientific definition.
Frequency
Equally low frequency in general discourse for both varieties. Used identically within medical and academic fields.
Grammar
How to Use “sebaceous glands” in a Sentence
The sebaceous glands [VERB: secrete/produce/become/are located]...[ADJECTIVE: overactive/blocked/enlarged] sebaceous glandsVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “sebaceous glands” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The sebaceous duct was clearly visible under the microscope.
American English
- Sebaceous activity tends to increase during adolescence.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Standard term in biology, anatomy, dermatology, and medical textbooks and research papers.
Everyday
Rarely used in casual conversation, except when discussing skin care or acne specifically.
Technical
The primary context of use. Precisely defined in medical and cosmetic science.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “sebaceous glands”
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “sebaceous glands”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “sebaceous glands”
- Mispronouncing 'sebaceous' as /ˈsiːbəs/ or /seˈbæʃəs/.
- Misspelling as 'sebacious glands'.
- Confusing with 'sudoriferous glands' (sweat glands).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, they are different. Sebaceous glands produce oily sebum, while sweat glands (eccrine and apocrine) produce watery sweat for thermoregulation and other functions.
They are found almost all over the skin, except on the palms of the hands and the soles of the feet. They are most dense on the face and scalp.
A blocked sebaceous gland duct can lead to the accumulation of sebum and dead skin cells, forming a comedo (blackhead or whitehead). This can become inflamed and develop into acne papules or pustules.
Yes, certain topical treatments (like retinoids) and oral medications (like isotretinoin) can reduce sebum production. Lifestyle factors and some cosmetic procedures may also influence their activity.
Small skin glands that secrete an oily or waxy substance (sebum) to lubricate and waterproof the skin and hair.
Sebaceous glands is usually technical/scientific/medical in register.
Sebaceous glands: in British English it is pronounced /sɪˈbeɪʃəs ɡlændz/, and in American English it is pronounced /səˈbeɪʃəs ɡlændz/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think 'SEBaceous' for 'SEBum' (the oily substance). The glands that make SEBum are the SEBaceous glands.
Conceptual Metaphor
Oil factories of the skin.
Practice
Quiz
Sebaceous glands are most closely associated with which of the following?