Definition

A substance that can cause the enlargement of the thyroid gland, known as goiter, often found in certain foods or chemicals.

Example

Certain vegetables, like kale and cabbage, contain goitrogens that can affect thyroid function.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of a goitrogen?

No, what's that?

It's a substance that can cause goiter, like certain foods.

Oh, interesting! I didn't know some foods could do that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Goitrogen is formed from "goiter" (from Latin *guttur*, meaning throat) and "-gen" (from Greek *genes*, meaning born of or produced by). The term refers to substances that can induce the formation of a goiter, which is an enlargement of the thyroid gland in the throat.

Memory Tip

Think of 'goiter' as referring to the throat and '-gen' meaning something that produces. This helps you remember that a goitrogen is something that can cause a goiter to form.

Visually Confused Words