estrogen
UK: ˈɛstrədʒən | US: ˈɛstrədʒən
n. A steroid hormone that promotes the development and maintenance of female characteristics in vertebrates.
estrogen = estr<estrus (heat, reproductive cycle)> + o<connecting vowel> + gen<producing>
- estr (from Greek oistros, meaning "madness, frenzy," later specialized to "estrus" or reproductive heat in animals)
- o (a connecting vowel commonly used in scientific terminology)
- gen (from Greek -genēs, meaning "producing" or "generating")
Etymology Origin:
The word estrogen originates from the Greek oistros (estrus), reflecting its role in the reproductive cycle, combined with -gen (producing). It was coined in the early 20th century to describe the hormone responsible for female sexual development. The term highlights its function in generating estrus-like effects, even in humans, where it regulates secondary sexual characteristics.
Estrogen levels fluctuate during the menstrual cycle.
Doctors may prescribe estrogen to treat menopausal symptoms.
Some cancers are sensitive to estrogen.
Estrogen plays a key role in bone density maintenance.
Synthetic estrogen is used in hormonal contraceptives.