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penis

A Dictionary of Nursing | 2008 | Â© A Dictionary of Nursing 2008, originally published by Oxford University Press 2008. (Hide copyright information) Copyright

penis (pee-nis) n. the male organ that carries the urethra, through which urine and semen are discharged (see illustration). Most of the organ is composed of erectile tissue (corpus cavernosum and corpus spongiosum), which becomes filled with blood under conditions of sexual excitement so that the penis is erected. See also glans, prepuce.
—penile adj.

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penis

A Dictionary of Biology | 2004 | Â© A Dictionary of Biology 2004, originally published by Oxford University Press 2004. (Hide copyright information) Copyright

penis The male reproductive organ of mammals (and also of some birds and reptiles) used to introduce sperm into the female reproductive tract to ensure internal fertilization. It contains a duct (the urethra) through which the sperms pass. The penis becomes erect during precopulatory activity, either by filling with blood or haemolymph or by the action of muscles, and can be inserted into the vagina (or cloaca). In mammals the urine also leaves the body through the penis.

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penis

World Encyclopedia | 2005 | Â© World Encyclopedia 2005, originally published by Oxford University Press 2005. (Hide copyright information) Copyright

penis Male reproductive organ. It contains the urethra, the channel through which urine and semen pass to the exterior, and erectile tissue that, when engorged with blood, causes the penis to become erect. See also sexual intercourse

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