Estradiol: meaning, definitions and examples
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estradiol
[ ɛstrəˈdaɪɔl ]
hormone function
Estradiol is a form of estrogen, a female sex hormone that plays a crucial role in the regulation of the menstrual cycle and reproductive system. It is produced mainly in the ovaries and is essential for the development of female secondary sexual characteristics and reproduction. Additionally, estradiol has significant effects on other tissues, such as the bones and the brain.
Synonyms
E2, estrogen, female hormone
Examples of usage
- Estradiol levels fluctuate during the menstrual cycle.
- Doctors may prescribe estradiol for hormone replacement therapy.
- Low levels of estradiol can lead to various health issues.
- Estradiol plays a role in bone density maintenance.
- Research on estradiol helps us understand its impact on mood.
Word origin
The term 'estradiol' is derived from the chemical nomenclature of estrogens, which are a group of steroid hormones. The prefix 'estr-' is derived from the word 'oestrus,' referring to the period of heightened sexual receptivity in female mammals, while 'diol' indicates the presence of two hydroxyl (–OH) groups in its molecular structure. Estradiol was first isolated from the urine of pregnant women in the 1920s and subsequently synthesized in laboratories. Over the years, its role in women's health, particularly in relation to menstruation, menopause, and hormone replacement therapies, has become a significant area of research. The understanding of estradiol's functions has evolved, highlighting its broader impacts on cardiovascular health, bone density, and mental well-being.
Word Frequency Rank
With rank #18,074, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.
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- 18071 misrepresented
- 18072 confessional
- 18073 warped
- 18074 estradiol
- 18075 reaping
- 18076 pith
- 18077 signalled
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