I often here my prof use the word proper as in "mucous glands proper". What does the word proper mean?

Answer 1

http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/proper

See definition #7.

Answer 2

So my prof said that the submucosa contained mucous glands proper. So according to the link you sent me I'm going to assume the glands are embedded within the submucosa. I still don't understand 100%. What's the point in even saying proper. Why couldn't he just say the submucosa has mucous glands instead of mucous glands proper.

Answer 3

Sometimes people (especially teachers!!) speak the way they've been spoken to all their lives! It's not always correct, and it sometimes involves the use of unnecessary words. I'd take this as an unnecessary word. You already understand the concept -- with or without "proper"!

=)

Answer 4

Ohh ok; thanks a bunch! :D

Answer 5

It's rather fun to listen for this type of thing. How many times do you hear the same people repeating any of the following:

-- just sayin'

-- per se

-- actually...

-- like (when it's completely unnecessary!)

... and I'm sure you can think of others!