Gallbladder Meaning and Definition
Gallbladder
Pronunciation
/ˈgælˈblædər/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A small, pear-shaped organ located in the right upper quadrant of the abdomen, connected to the liver by a duct, responsible for storing and releasing bile into the small intestine for digestion.
Examples
- The doctor advised him to get his gallbladder removed due to stones.
- Gallbladder issues can cause abdominal pain and discomfort.
Synonyms
- Bile sac
- Cholecyst
Antonyms
- Stomach
- Intestine
Etymology
The word “gallbladder” comes from the Old English words “gealla” meaning bile and “bladder” meaning pouch or bag.
Usage Notes
When referring to the gallbladder, it is common to use the pronoun “it” instead of “he” or “she”, as the organ is inanimate.
Additional Information
The gallbladder is a vital organ in the digestive system, and its removal (cholecystectomy) is a common surgical procedure. In some cases, the gallbladder can become inflamed or infected, leading to gallstones that may need to be removed. Good dietary habits and regular exercise can help maintain a healthy gallbladder.
Gallbladder issues are often associated with chronic conditions such as diabetes, obesity, and gallstone disease.