MOLAR GLAND Meaning and
Definition
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A molar gland refers to a specialized gland found in certain mammals, predominantly in rodents, such as beavers and muskrats. It is known as a molar gland due to its location close to or associated with the molars, which are large grinding teeth found towards the back of the mouth.
The molar gland is responsible for the production and secretion of a substance called castoreum, which is known for its strong, musky odor. This substance is used by animals for various purposes, including territorial marking and attraction of mates.
The gland itself is typically located within or near the cheek pouches of the animal, which are expandable pouches located on the sides of the mouth. The secretion from the molar gland is expelled through ducts and deposited onto surrounding surfaces, such as rocks, tree trunks, or vegetation.
Castoreum, obtained from the molar gland, has also been historically used by humans for certain purposes, such as in the manufacturing of perfumes, medicines, and as a flavoring agent in food and beverages. However, its use in commercial products has largely declined due to the development of synthetic alternatives.
Overall, molar glands and their secretions play a significant role in the behavior, communication, and potentially even the survival of certain mammalian species.
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One of four or five large buccal glands in the neighborhood of the last molar tooth.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for MOLAR GLAND
- nolar gland
- kolar gland
- jolar gland
- milar gland
- mklar gland
- mllar gland
- mplar gland
- m0lar gland
- m9lar gland
- mokar gland
- mopar gland
- mooar gland
- molzr gland
- molsr gland
- molwr gland
- molqr gland
- molae gland
- molad gland
- molaf gland
- molat gland
Etymology of MOLAR GLAND
The word "molar gland" does not have a distinct etymology, as it is a combination of two separate terms: "molar" and "gland".
"Molar" originates from the Latin word "molaris", meaning "pertaining to a millstone or grinder". It is primarily associated with the large, flat teeth located in the back of the mouth, used for grinding food.
"Gland" derives from the Latin word "glandula", meaning "little acorn" or "gland". It refers to an organ or structure in the body that produces and secretes substances, such as hormones or saliva.
Therefore, "molar gland" simply refers to a gland associated with the molars, the teeth located at the rear of the mouth.
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