Hormone: meaning, definitions and examples
๐
hormone
[หhษหrmoสn ]
Definition
biological function
Hormones are chemical messengers produced by the endocrine glands in the body. They regulate various physiological processes, including growth, metabolism, and mood. Hormones travel through the bloodstream to target organs or tissues, where they exert their effects. Each hormone has specific functions and effects, contributing significantly to homeostasis in the body. Imbalances in hormone levels can lead to various health issues.
Synonyms
bioactive substance, chemical messenger, endocrine secretion.
Examples of usage
- Insulin is a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels.
- The hormone estrogen is crucial for female reproductive health.
- Stress can trigger the release of adrenaline, a hormone that prepares the body for fight or flight.
- Thyroid hormones play a vital role in metabolism regulation.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word 'hormone' comes from the Greek word 'hormonein', meaning 'to excite' or 'to stir up'.
- The term was first used in the early 20th century as scientists began to understand these body's chemical messengers.
Biology
- Hormones are produced by glands, such as the pituitary gland, thyroid, and pancreas, impacting many bodily functions.
- Some hormones, like insulin, help control blood sugar levels, while others regulate growth and mood.
Psychology
- Hormones can influence emotions; for example, serotonin is often called the 'feel-good' hormone.
- Changes in hormone levels, such as during puberty or menopause, can strongly affect emotional well-being and mental health.
Pop Culture
- The 'hormonal' behavior stereotype often depicts teenagers as moody or unpredictable due to hormonal changes.
- In popular media, hormones are frequently linked to romance, as many cultures associate them with attraction and love.
Health
- Hormonal imbalances can lead to various health issues, including weight gain, fatigue, and mood fluctuations.
- Many people turn to lifestyle changes or medications to manage hormonal disorders, highlighting the importance of these chemicals in health.
Translations
Translations of the word "hormone" in other languages:
๐ต๐น hormรดnio
๐ฎ๐ณ เคนเคพเคฐเฅเคฎเฅเคจ
๐ฉ๐ช Hormon
๐ฎ๐ฉ hormon
๐บ๐ฆ ะณะพัะผะพะฝ
๐ต๐ฑ hormon
๐ฏ๐ต ใใซใขใณ
๐ซ๐ท hormone
๐ช๐ธ hormona
๐น๐ท hormon
๐ฐ๐ท ํธ๋ฅด๋ชฌ
๐ธ๐ฆ ูุฑู ูู
๐จ๐ฟ hormon
๐ธ๐ฐ hormรณn
๐จ๐ณ ๆฟ็ด
๐ธ๐ฎ hormon
๐ฎ๐ธ hormรณn
๐ฐ๐ฟ ะณะพัะผะพะฝ
๐ฌ๐ช แฐแแ แแแแ
๐ฆ๐ฟ hormon
๐ฒ๐ฝ hormona