adj. & n. (also lacrimal, lacrymal)
--adj.
1. literary of or for tears.
2 (usu. as lacrimal) Anat. concerned in the secretion of tears (lacrimal canal; lacrimal duct).
--n.
1. lachrymal vase.
2 (in pl.) (usu. as lacrimals) the lacrimal organs.
Phrases and idioms:
lachrymal vase hist. a phial holding the tears of mourners at a funeral.
Etymology: ME f. med.L lachrymalis f. L lacrima tear