Definition

The surgical procedure to remove the pineal gland from the brain.

Example

The doctor explained that a pinealectomy might be necessary for certain medical conditions.

Conversation

I read an article about pinealectomy and its effects on sleep patterns.

Really? That sounds interesting! What did it say?

It mentioned how removing the pineal gland can disrupt melatonin production.

Wow, that makes sense since melatonin is so important for sleep.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Pinealectomy is formed from "pineal" (from Latin *pinea*, meaning pine cone, referring to the shape of the pineal gland) and "-ectomy" (from Greek *ektomē*, meaning excision or removal). The term refers to the surgical removal of the pineal gland.

Memory Tip

Think of the 'pineal' gland shaped like a 'pine cone' and 'ectomy' meaning 'removal' — so pinealectomy means the removal of the pineal gland.

Visually Confused Words