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Testosterone Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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testosterone

[tษ›sหˆtษ’stษ™หŒroสŠn ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

hormone production

Testosterone is a steroid hormone that plays a key role in the development of male reproductive tissues as well as promoting secondary sexual characteristics such as increased muscle and bone mass. It is produced primarily in the testes in men and in smaller amounts in the ovaries and adrenal glands in women. Testosterone levels generally peak during adolescence and early adulthood and gradually decline with age. It is often associated with male traits and behaviors but is also crucial for women's health.

Synonyms

androgen, steroid hormone.

Examples of usage

  • High testosterone levels can lead to increased aggression.
  • Athletes sometimes use testosterone to improve performance.
  • Testosterone production decreases as men age.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Biology

  • Produced primarily in the testes in males and in smaller amounts in the ovaries for females, it plays a crucial role in both genders.
  • It influences a variety of bodily functions, such as muscle mass, bone density, and sex drive.
  • Levels of testosterone can fluctuate throughout the day, often peaking in the morning.

Health

  • Low levels of this hormone in men can lead to fatigue, depression, and decreased sexual desire.
  • Excessively high levels can cause health issues such as aggression and an increased risk of heart disease.
  • Hormone therapy using testosterone can help treat certain conditions but must be monitored by professionals.

Culture

  • The association of this hormone with masculinity has been prevalent in various cultures, often linked to ideas of strength and dominance.
  • In sports, measuring this hormone is controversial, particularly in discussions about performance enhancement and fairness.
  • Pop culture often portrays it in ways that emphasize stereotypical male behaviors, reinforcing certain gender norms.

Psychology

  • Research indicates a correlation between testosterone levels and behavior, especially in terms of competitiveness and aggression.
  • Studies suggest that this hormone may influence mood and cognitive functions, showing its complexity in human psychology.
  • Individuals with higher levels might show different social behaviors, impacting relationships and interactions.

Origin of 'testosterone'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'testis,' meaning 'witness,' which originally referred to the male reproductive organ.
  • Combined with 'sterone,' a suffix used in the names of steroid hormones, it highlights its nature as a hormone.
  • Testosterone was first identified in 1935 from the testicles of pigs, opening new avenues in hormone therapy.

The term 'testosterone' was first used in the 1930s and is derived from the Latin word 'testis,' which means 'testicle,' combined with the Greek suffix 'steron,' meaning 'solid' or 'steroid.' The discovery of testosterone was crucial to understanding male biology and endocrinology, and it has been widely studied for its effects on growth, development, and behavior. Initially isolated from animal testicular tissue, its synthetic production soon became possible, leading to the development of testosterone replacement therapies and other medical applications. Over the decades, its influence has extended beyond medicine into sports, culture, and discussions surrounding masculinity.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,238, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.