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Estradiol: meaning, definitions and examples

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estradiol

 

[ ɛstrəˈdaɪɔl ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

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.

Etymology

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.