noun
pancreas
PAN-kree-uhs/ˈpæŋkriəs/
An abdominal organ that produces digestive enzymes and hormones that regulate blood sugar.
The pancreas releases enzymes for digestion and hormones that control blood sugar.
Etymology
The Greek pieces mean “entirely flesh,” probably referring to the organ’s homogeneous substance. The name thus likely describes its texture rather than its digestive or hormonal functions.
In context
amylase breaks down carbohydrates and lipase breaks down fat insulin and glucagon hormones that maintain blood glucose are also produced in the pancreas
More examples
- The pancreas sits behind the stomach.
- An MRI gives the doctor a detailed view of her pancreas.
- Damage to the pancreas can reduce insulin production.
Forms
pancreas · pancreases · pancreata
pancreatic adjective — Relating to or affecting the pancreas.