pituitary
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /pɪˈtjuːɪˌtɛri/
KK: /pɪˈtjuːɪˌtɛri/
adjective
Definition
Related to a small gland in the brain that produces hormones controlling various bodily functions.
Example
The doctor explained how the pituitary gland affects growth and metabolism.
Conversation
I've been reading about how the pituitary gland affects our hormones.
Oh really? I didn't know it was so important for our health.
Yeah, it's fascinating how pituitary issues can lead to various problems.
For sure! I should learn more about it.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
endocrine
hormonal
glandular
Antonyms
nonhormonal
asymptomatic
inactive
noun
Definition
A small gland located at the base of the brain that produces hormones controlling various bodily functions, including growth and metabolism.
Example
The doctor explained how the pituitary gland regulates hormones in the body.
Conversation
I just read about the pituitary gland and its role in our bodies.
Oh really? What does it do exactly?
It regulates so many important hormones; it's fascinating!
Root Explanation
Pituitary → It is derived from the Latin word "pituitarius" (meaning mucus or phlegm), which comes from "pituita" (meaning mucus). The term originally referred to the gland's association with the secretion of mucus, and over time, it became known for its role in hormone production.
Memory Tip
Think of the Latin word for mucus, 'pituita', to remember that the pituitary gland is involved in the secretion of important hormones, much like how mucus is secreted.
Visually Confused Words
prepituitary
postpituitary