Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
gubernaculum
Noun
/ˌɡuːbərˈnæk.jə.ləm/
Definition
A gubernaculum refers to a fibrous structure in an organism that guides or influences the movement of adjacent structures, often related to the descent of gonads during development.
Examples
- The gubernaculum is vital in the male reproductive system for the proper descent of the testes.
- During fetal development, the gubernaculum helps guide the ovaries into their correct position.
Meaning
In biological terms, it often refers to a cord or ligament that aids in the descent of the testes in males or helps anchor the ovaries in females.
Synonyms
- ligament
- cord
- connector
