What does lacrymal mean?
Lacrymal means relating to tears, especially the bodily structures that produce and drain them. The word occurs in anatomical and medical terms such as lacrimal gland, lacrimal duct, and lacrimal fluid. The lacrimal glands, located in the upper part of the orbit, produce tears that spread across the eye and help keep its surface moist and clean. Their drainage passages carry excess tears into the nose, which is why the nose can run when a person cries. Although “lacrimal” is the more usual spelling today, “lacrymal” remains a valid and recognizable variant, particularly in formal and medical usage. The adjective is precise rather than poetic: it identifies the part of the tear system rather than describing someone who is crying. Understanding it helps distinguish tear-related anatomy and conditions from more general references to crying, weeping, or moisture.
adjectiveRelating to tears or the production and drainage of tears. It is chiefly used in anatomical and medical contexts.
- Relating to tears, especially to the organs that produce, secrete, or drain them.
"The lacrimal glands produce tears that lubricate the surface of the eye."
"The surgeon examined the lacrimal duct for signs of blockage."
"Inflammation of the lacrimal gland can cause pain and swelling near the eye."
Your tears have a dedicated drainage system: the lacrimal ducts carry them from the eye into the nose.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does lacrymal come from?
The word comes through English from Latin lācrīmālis, meaning “of or pertaining to tears,” a derivative of lācruma, “tear.” The same Latin root underlies related forms such as lachrymose and lachrymatory. English has long used both “lacrimal” and the older variant “lachrymal,” with “lacrimal” now predominant in medical usage.
Related word forms
How lacrymal is actually used
This is a technical or medical adjective and is not normally used in general conversation. “Lacrimal” is the more common modern spelling; “lachrymal” is an established variant.
Easily confused with lacrymal
Both words mean relating to tears, but “lacrimal” is the more usual spelling in anatomical and medical terminology.