hormone
UK: ˈhɔːməʊn | US: ˈhɔːrmoʊn
n. a regulatory substance produced in an organism and transported in tissue fluids to stimulate specific cells or tissues into action.
The word "hormone" originates from the Greek "hormon" (present participle of "horman," meaning "to excite" or "to set in motion"). Coined in 1905 by English physiologist Ernest Starling, it reflects the function of hormones as chemical messengers that stimulate physiological activity. The suffix "-one" was added to align with scientific terminology, similar to other biochemical terms (e.g., "enzyme"). The term captures the essence of hormones as agents that "excite" or "activate" biological processes.
Insulin is a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels.
Stress triggers the release of the hormone cortisol.
Growth hormone plays a key role in childhood development.
The thyroid gland produces hormones that control metabolism.
Hormone therapy is often used to treat imbalances.