A compound gland refers to a specialized organ that secretes substances directly into a duct or onto a surface. Several synonyms exist for the term "compound gland" in the field of anatomy and biology. One alternative term commonly used is "exocrine gland", which highlights the gland's ability to secrete externally through a duct. Additionally, some experts may use the term "complex gland" to denote the intricate structure and composition of these glands. While both synonyms are widely accepted, it is important to note that compound glands are distinct in their ability to produce intricate mixtures of products compared to other glands in the body.