# endocrine

/ˈɛndoʊˌkɹaɪn/ (US) · /ˈɛndəʊkɹˌaɪn/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/endocrine
Updated: 2026-05-09

## Definition

relating to the system of glands in your body that make hormones. These hormones travel through your blood to help control things like growth and energy.

For teachers: relating to the system of glands that secrete hormones directly into the circulatory system to regulate physiological activities. Typically used to describe the glands themselves or the chemical signaling process.

## Examples

- The thyroid is a major endocrine gland.
- Doctors often run blood tests to check if a patient's endocrine system is producing the right amount of insulin.
- Environmental toxins can act as endocrine disruptors, interfering with the delicate hormonal balance required for healthy metabolic function and reproductive development.

## Usage notes

- Primarily used as an attributive adjective preceding a noun.

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