meibomian gland
noun
mei·bo·mian gland
mī-ˈbō-mē-ən- 
variants
also Meibomian gland
: one of the tubular sebaceous glands along the edge of the eyelids that discharge a fatty secretion which lubricates the surface of the eye
The meibomian glands, located along the edge of the eyelids, produce a lipid (liquid fat) outer layer that slows the evaporation of the watery tear layer below.—
Steven Larry, Prevention
Steven Larry, PreventionThe outermost layer is oily, produced by the Meibomian glands at the edge of the eyelid. Its job is to reduce evaporation of the tear film and smooth out its surface.—Jane E. Brody, The New York Times
Jane E. Brody, The New York Timescalled also tarsal gland
see chalazionCite this Entry
“Meibomian gland.” Merriam-Webster.com Medical Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/medical/meibomian%20gland. Accessed 31 Oct. 2025.
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