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Pituitary: meaning, definitions and examples

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pituitary

 

[ pɪˈtjuːɪtəri ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

anatomy biology

The pituitary gland is a small pea-sized gland located at the base of the brain. Often referred to as the 'master gland', it plays a crucial role in regulating various physiological processes through the secretion of hormones. These hormones control important functions such as growth, metabolism, and reproductive processes. The gland is divided into two main parts: the anterior and posterior pituitary, each producing different hormones that have specific effects on the body's systems.

Synonyms

hypophysis, master gland

Examples of usage

  • The pituitary gland regulates growth hormones.
  • The doctor explained the role of the pituitary in hormone release.
  • Disorders of the pituitary can lead to significant health issues.

Translations

Translations of the word "pituitary" in other languages:

🇵🇹 hipófise

🇮🇳 पिट्यूटरी

🇩🇪 Hypophyse

🇮🇩 kelenjar pituitari

🇺🇦 гіпофіз

🇵🇱 przysadka mózgowa

🇯🇵 下垂体

🇫🇷 hypophyse

🇪🇸 hipófisis

🇹🇷 hipofiz

🇰🇷 뇌하수체

🇸🇦 الغدة النخامية

🇨🇿 hypofýza

🇸🇰 hypofýza

🇨🇳 垂体

🇸🇮 hipofiza

🇮🇸 heiladingull

🇰🇿 гипофиз

🇬🇪 ჰიპოფიზი

🇦🇿 hipofiz

🇲🇽 hipófisis

Etymology

The term 'pituitary' is derived from the Latin word 'pituitarius', which means 'mucus'. This name comes from the early belief that the gland produced mucus. The gland was first described in the medical literature around the 14th century. It was later identified as a crucial component of the endocrine system, particularly in the secretion of hormones that affect various bodily functions. Over time, advancements in anatomy and endocrinology have revealed the significant roles of the pituitary gland in regulating homeostasis, thus firmly establishing its importance in human biology.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,516 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.