stilbestrol
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: A synthetic, nonsteroidal compound that acts as a powerful estrogen. It is used in medical treatments and as an additive in livestock and poultry feed to promote growth.
Usage
Stilbestrol is a technical term used primarily in medical, veterinary, and agricultural contexts. It refers to a specific synthetic hormone. - It is used as a medication for certain hormone-related conditions. - It is used in animal husbandry to enhance growth rates.
Examples
- The veterinarian explained that stilbestrol was once commonly used in cattle feed.
- Due to safety concerns, the use of stilbestrol in food-producing animals has been banned in many countries.
- Some historical medical treatments for prostate cancer included stilbestrol.
Advanced Usage
- Diethylstilbestrol (DES): This is the full chemical name for stilbestrol. The term is often used interchangeably, though is more precise in medical literature.
- Example: Diethylstilbestrol (DES) was prescribed to pregnant women in the mid-20th century.
Variants and Related Words
- Diethylstilbestrol (DES): The full technical name.
- Stilboestrol: An alternative spelling, primarily used in British English.
- Synthetic estrogen: A general category to which stilbestrol belongs.
Synonyms
- DES (common abbreviation)
- Diethylstilbestrol (formal synonym)
- Synthetic estrogen (general term)
Notes on Meaning
This word has a very specific, technical meaning. Its usage is now largely historical or regulatory due to widespread bans on its use in agriculture and its known health risks from past medical applications.
Noun
- a potent estrogen used in medicine and in feed for livestock and poultry