Definition

A hormone made by the thyroid gland that helps control the body's metabolism and growth. It contains iodine and is used in medicine to treat thyroid problems.

Example

The doctor prescribed thyroxine to help regulate her thyroid function.

Conversation

I just learned that thyroxine is important for our metabolism.

Really? I didn't know that! What does it do exactly?

It helps regulate growth and keeps our energy levels up.

That's interesting! I guess it's crucial for our overall health.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Thyroxine is formed from "thyro-" (from Greek "thyreos", meaning shield, referring to the thyroid gland's shape) and "-xine" (a suffix used in chemistry to denote a substance). The word refers to a substance produced by the thyroid gland that plays a crucial role in metabolism.

Memory Tip

Think of the 'thyroid' gland, which has a 'shield' shape ('thyro-'), and remember that 'thyroxine' is a substance produced by this gland that affects metabolism.

Visually Confused Words