Definition

A hormone made by the thyroid gland that helps to lower the levels of calcium and phosphate in the blood.

Example

Calcitonin is important for regulating calcium levels in the body.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of calcitonin?

Yeah, it’s that hormone from the thyroid gland, right?

Exactly! It helps lower calcium levels in the blood.

That’s interesting! I didn’t know it also affects phosphate levels.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Calcitonin → It is formed from "calci-" (from Latin "calx", meaning lime or calcium) and "-tonin" (derived from the Greek "tonos", meaning tension or tone). The word refers to a hormone that helps regulate calcium levels in the body, thus influencing the tone of calcium metabolism.

Memory Tip

Think of 'calcium' ('calci-') which is essential for bone health, and 'tonin' which relates to regulating tension or tone in the body. This helps you remember that calcitonin is a hormone that regulates calcium levels.

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