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Parathyroid: meaning, definitions and examples

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parathyroid

 

[ ˌpærəˈθaɪrɔɪd ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

anatomy and physiology

The parathyroid glands are small endocrine glands located in the neck, usually behind the thyroid gland. They are responsible for regulating calcium levels in the body through the secretion of parathyroid hormone (PTH). PTH plays a crucial role in maintaining the calcium balance by increasing the release of calcium from bones, enhancing the absorption of calcium in the intestines, and decreasing the amount of calcium excreted by the kidneys. Any dysfunction in these glands can lead to calcium imbalances, causing various health issues.

Synonyms

none.

Examples of usage

  • The parathyroid gland regulates calcium levels.
  • She had surgery to remove a parathyroid tumor.
  • Parathyroid hormone helps maintain bone health.

Translations

Translations of the word "parathyroid" in other languages:

🇵🇹 paratireoide

🇮🇳 पैराथायरॉयड

🇩🇪 Nebenschilddrüse

🇮🇩 paratiroid

🇺🇦 паращитовидна

🇵🇱 przytarczyca

🇯🇵 副甲状腺

🇫🇷 parathyroïde

🇪🇸 paratiroides

🇹🇷 paratiroid

🇰🇷 부갑상선

🇸🇦 الغدة الجار درقية

🇨🇿 příštítná žláza

🇸🇰 príštitná žľaza

🇨🇳 甲状旁腺

🇸🇮 paratiroidna žleza

🇮🇸 barkirtilfruma

🇰🇿 паращитовидная безг

🇬🇪 პარათიროიდი

🇦🇿 paratiroid

🇲🇽 paratiroides

Etymology

The term 'parathyroid' comes from the prefix 'para-' meaning 'beside' and the Greek word 'thyreoeides', which translates to 'thyroid shape' referring to the thyroid gland, which the parathyroid glands are adjacent to. The first documented discovery of parathyroid glands occurred in the early 19th century, with their function being elucidated later in the century. Their role in calcium metabolism was progressively understood, particularly through studies in the late 19th and early 20th centuries that linked parathyroid hormone to bone health and calcium homeostasis. This understanding was critical in the development of treatments for various disorders related to calcium imbalance, including hyperparathyroidism and hypoparathyroidism.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,187, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.