endocrine gland

noun

: a gland (such as the thyroid or the pituitary) that produces an endocrine secretion

called also ductless gland

Examples of endocrine gland in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
This revolutionary idea challenged the prevailing scientific view of the brain as the seat of higher thought and emotion, and not as a run-of-the-mill endocrine gland. Eryn Brown, Washington Post, 23 Feb. 2024 This syndrome can cause endocrine glands to grow tumors on them. Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 25 Sep. 2023 Hormones in endocrine glands, like cortisol and adrenaline (as well as oxytocin) also regulate mood states. USA TODAY, 10 July 2023 People with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma, a cancer that forms in the inside of the thyroid gland, or multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 syndrome, which causes tumors to form on the endocrine glands, should definitely stay away from this drug. Emily Shiffer, Women's Health, 19 Mar. 2023 In some cases, tumors, autoimmune conditions, and damage to endocrine glands can cause medically significant imbalances. Claire Bugos, Verywell Health, 17 Mar. 2023

Word History

First Known Use

1914, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of endocrine gland was in 1914

Dictionary Entries Near endocrine gland

Cite this Entry

“Endocrine gland.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/endocrine%20gland. Accessed 21 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

endocrine gland

noun
: any of various glands that have no duct and release their secretions directly into the lymph or blood circulating through them

called also ductless gland

Medical Definition

endocrine gland

noun
: a gland (as the thyroid or the pituitary) that produces an endocrine secretion

called also ductless gland, gland of internal secretion

More from Merriam-Webster on endocrine gland

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!