sweat gland

noun

: a simple tubular gland of the skin that excretes perspiration, is widely distributed in nearly all parts of the human skin, and consists typically of an epithelial tube extending spirally from a minute pore on the surface of the skin into the dermis or subcutaneous tissues where it ends in a convoluted tuft

Examples of sweat gland in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Sensors that measure variations in the conductance of our skin due to changes in our sweat glands—known as the galvanic skin response—are starting to show up in wrist wearables and will be easily adapted to the ear. —IEEE Spectrum, 1 May 2019

Hyperhidrosis: Damage to the nerves that regulate sweat glands can cause excessive sweating in the affected areas. —Lindsay Curtis, Health, 1 Nov. 2024

Tap water iontophoresis: One case report described successful treatment with this procedure, which involves a mild electrical current passed through tap water to temporarily shut off sweat glands. —Michael Menna, Verywell Health, 28 Oct. 2024

Clogged sweat glands can prevent the body from cooling itself properly and lead to heat exhaustion. —Heather Jones, Verywell Health, 23 July 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1845, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

sweat gland

noun

: a gland of the skin that gives off perspiration and opens by a tiny pore in the skin

Medical Definition

sweat gland

noun

: a simple tubular gland of the skin that secretes perspiration, in humans is widely distributed in nearly all parts of the skin, and consists typically of an epithelial tube extending spirally from a minute pore on the surface of the skin into the dermis or subcutaneous tissues where it ends in a convoluted tuft

called also sudoriferous gland, sudoriparous gland