thyroid gland
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Noun:
- An endocrine gland: The thyroid gland is a ductless gland of the endocrine system. It is located in the neck, near the base, and secretes hormones directly into the bloodstream.
- A regulator of metabolism: This gland produces hormones, primarily thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), which are critical for regulating the body's metabolic rate, growth, and development.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- The doctor examined her thyroid gland for any abnormalities.
- Iodine is an essential nutrient for the proper function of the thyroid gland.
- An overactive thyroid gland can cause weight loss and anxiety.
Advanced Usage
- Medical Context: The term is frequently used in medical, biological, and health contexts to discuss anatomy, physiology, and disorders.
- The scan revealed a nodule on her thyroid gland.
- Figurative Use: In rare, non-literal contexts, it can metaphorically represent a central control mechanism.
- The central bank acts as the thyroid gland of the national economy, regulating its metabolic rate.
Variants and Related Words
- Thyroid (noun/adjective): Often used as a shorter form for "thyroid gland." As an adjective, it describes things related to the gland (e.g., thyroid hormone, thyroid cartilage).
- She has a thyroid condition.
- Thyroidectomy (noun): The surgical removal of the thyroid gland.
- Hyperthyroidism (noun): A condition caused by an overactive thyroid gland.
- Hypothyroidism (noun): A condition caused by an underactive thyroid gland.
Synonyms
- Thyroid (when used as a noun to mean the gland itself).
- Endocrine gland (this is a broader category; the thyroid is a specific type of endocrine gland).
Related Phrases
- Thyroid function test: A blood test to check how well the thyroid gland is working.
- Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH): A hormone from the pituitary gland that controls the thyroid gland's activity.
Noun
- located near the base of the neck