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Anatomy & Physiology vocabulary · Nervous and Endocrine Systems

Thyroid gland

Meaning in anatomy & physiology, with examples

/ˈθaɪrɔɪd ˌɡlænd/nounCommon term

In anatomy & physiology, thyroid gland means: A butterfly-shaped endocrine gland at the front of the neck, below the larynx. It makes the thyroid hormones (T3 and T4), which control metabolic rate, and the hormone calcitonin.

In Turkish: tiroid bezi, kalkan bezi

How it is used

Students describe its two lobes joined by the isthmus. Its hormones need iodine, and their release is controlled by TSH from the pituitary gland through negative feedback. In everyday use people just say 'thyroid'.

Example sentences

  1. The thyroid gland moves up when the patient swallows.

  2. The thyroid gland needs iodine to make its hormones.

Common collocations

  • thyroid hormone
  • thyroid function
  • lobe of the thyroid
  • thyroid-stimulating hormone
  • glandAn organ or group of cells that makes and releases a substance. Endocrine glands release hormones into the blood; exocrine glands release secretions such as sweat or saliva through ducts.
  • hormoneA chemical messenger made by a gland and carried in the blood to target organs, where it changes how they work. Insulin, cortisol and thyroxine are examples.
  • metabolismAll the chemical reactions in the body's cells that break down food for energy and build new molecules. It includes catabolism (breaking down) and anabolism (building up).
  • negative feedbackA control system in which a change in the body triggers a response that reverses the change and brings conditions back toward a set point. It is the main way homeostasis is maintained.

More terms: Nervous and Endocrine Systems

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This page explains English vocabulary for learners. It is not medical advice.