acinus
/ˈæsɪnəs/
noun
- A small, berry-like cluster of cells in a gland that produces and releases a substance (such as saliva, milk, or oil).
- The doctor explained that the acinus is the basic functional unit of the pancreas.
- Each acinus in the salivary gland releases enzymes that help digest food.
- Under the microscope, the acinus looked like a tiny bunch of grapes.
- A small, rounded segment of a compound fruit, such as a blackberry or raspberry, each containing a seed.
- The fruit's surface is covered with many small acini that give it a bumpy texture.
- When you pick a blackberry, each acinus comes off the core separately.
- Each acinus of the raspberry holds a tiny seed inside its juicy flesh.