noun
hormone
HOR-mohn/ˈhɔːrməʊn/
A chemical messenger produced by glands or tissues that regulates activity in the body.
Insulin is a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels.
Etymology
Greek horman means “to impel” or “urge on”; its participle meant “that which sets in motion.” The scientific name presents a hormone as something that prompts bodily activity, fitting its role as a chemical regulator.
In context
our pituitary gland-- located inside the brain-- starts producing a special kind of hormone. Hormones are a specific kind of chemical in our bodies that act like little messengers.
More examples
- The thyroid gland produces hormones that help control metabolism.
- Her doctor checks her hormone levels with a blood test.
- During puberty, hormones trigger many changes in the body.
Forms
hormone · hormones
hormonal adjective — Relating to hormones or their effects.
Similar words
- chemical messenger
- Broader term that includes hormones, neurotransmitters, and other signaling substances.