Wolffian duct

English Noun

Definition

A paired structure found in mammals including humans that develops in the early stages of embryonic development and plays a critical role in the formation of internal male reproductive organs; precursor to the vasa deferentia, seminal vesicles, and epididymides.

Etymology

Named after German physiologist Caspar Friedrich Wolff (1733–1794), who described the mesonephros and its ducts in his dissertation in 1759.