Hypophysis: meaning, definitions and examples
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hypophysis
[ haɪˈpɒfɪsɪs ]
anatomy function
The hypophysis, commonly known as the pituitary gland, is a small gland located at the base of the brain. It plays a crucial role in regulating various bodily functions by releasing hormones that control metabolism, growth, and reproduction. The hypophysis is often referred to as the 'master gland' because of its significant influence on other endocrine glands.
Synonyms
master gland, pituitary gland.
Examples of usage
- The hypophysis secretes hormones that stimulate the thyroid.
- An imbalance in the hypophysis can lead to various health issues.
- Endocrinologists study the hypophysis to understand hormonal disorders.
Translations
Translations of the word "hypophysis" in other languages:
🇵🇹 hipófise
🇮🇳 हाइपोफिज़िस
🇩🇪 Hypophyse
🇮🇩 hipofisis
🇺🇦 гіпофіз
🇵🇱 przysadka
🇯🇵 下垂体
🇫🇷 hypophyse
🇪🇸 hipófisis
🇹🇷 hipofiz
🇰🇷 뇌하수체
🇸🇦 الغدة النخامية
🇨🇿 hypofýza
🇸🇰 hypofýza
🇨🇳 垂体
🇸🇮 hipofiza
🇮🇸 hypofýsa
🇰🇿 гипофиз
🇬🇪 ჰიპოფიზი
🇦🇿 hipofiz
🇲🇽 hipófisis
Etymology
The term 'hypophysis' originates from the Greek word 'hypophysis,' which means 'to grow under' or 'to undergrow.' The prefix 'hypo-' means 'under,' and 'physis' means 'growth' or 'nature.' This terminology was adopted in the late 19th century as the gland's anatomy was better understood. The substantive term was first introduced into the medical lexicon by comparative anatomists who were exploring the structure and functions of the brain and its various components. The hypophysis is vital for the endocrine system's functioning, influencing various physiological processes through the hormones it releases, thus it was considered essential to establish a clear and specific nomenclature for it.