Mammary: meaning, definitions and examples

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mammary

 

[ ˈmɛməˌri ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

anatomy function

Mammary refers to the glands and tissues related to the production of milk in mammals. These structures are vital for feeding newborns and play a crucial role in mammalian reproduction and nurturing. The mammary glands undergo various changes during an animal’s life cycle, particularly during pregnancy and lactation. In humans, mammary glands are commonly associated with breasts, which serve both reproductive and sexual functions.

Synonyms

lacteal, milk-producing

Examples of usage

  • The mammary glands develop during puberty.
  • Mammary tumors are common in certain dog breeds.
  • Some animals have more developed mammary structures than others.

Translations

Translations of the word "mammary" in other languages:

🇵🇹 mamário

🇮🇳 स्तनग्रंथि (stangranthi)

🇩🇪 drüsig

🇮🇩 payudara

🇺🇦 молочний

🇵🇱 mlekowy

🇯🇵 乳腺の (nyūsen no)

🇫🇷 mammaire

🇪🇸 mamario

🇹🇷 memeli

🇰🇷 유선의 (yuseon-ui)

🇸🇦 ثديي (thady)

🇨🇿 mléčný

🇸🇰 mliečny

🇨🇳 乳腺的 (rǔxiàn de)

🇸🇮 mlečni

🇮🇸 mjólkur

🇰🇿 сүт безді (süt bezdi)

🇬🇪 მამლის (mamlis)

🇦🇿 məmə

🇲🇽 mamario

Word origin

The term 'mammary' is derived from the Latin word 'mamma' meaning 'breast' or 'udder'. This Latin root is connected to the Proto-Indo-European word '*méh₂mā', which indicates a maternal or nurturing aspect. The concept of mammary glands became more significant in scientific discourse during the 18th and 19th centuries when the study of anatomy and physiology advanced. As biologists sought to classify living organisms, understanding mammary functions became crucial, especially in the context of reproduction. The term solidified its place in the biological sciences, particularly in studies pertaining to lactation and mammalian characteristics, reflecting both the evolutionary significance and the biological importance of these glands in nurturing offspring.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,598, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.