Jacobson's organ

American  

[jey-kuhb-suhnz] / ˈdʒeɪ kəb sənz /

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.

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Etymology

Origin of Jacobson's organ

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

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

The reptiles also have a Jacobson’s organ, and they’re “tasting” the air.

From Washington Times