Jacobson's organ

[jey-kuhb-suhnz]

noun

Anatomy, Zoology.

1. either of a pair of blind, tubular, olfactory sacs in the roof of the mouth, vestigial in humans but well-developed in many animals, especially reptiles.

Word History and Origins

Origin of Jacobson's organ¹

1870–75; named after L. L. Jacobson (died 1843), Danish anatomist

Example Sentences

Our feline friends have another tool at their disposal: the Jacobson’s organ.

From National Geographic

Tucked above the mouth, receptor cells in the Jacobson’s organ connect to the part of the brain associated with sexual, feeding, and social behaviors.

From National Geographic

This shunts air molecules to the Jacobson’s organ.

From National Geographic

The inhaled air is trapped on the olfactory epithelium and/or the Jacobson’s organ, giving kitties an extra chance to detect scent molecules.

From National Geographic

Dogs, he explained, have a “Jacobson’s organ” that helps them smell.

From Washington Times