# endogenous

/ˌɛnˈdɔdʒɛnəs/ (US) · /ɛndˈəʊdʒənəs/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/endogenous
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

describing something that comes from inside a person or thing rather than from the outside. In science, it refers to things that are produced naturally within a system.

For teachers: originating or produced within a system, organism, or entity rather than being introduced from an external source. Often used in biological and economic contexts to distinguish internal factors from external ones.

## Examples

- The body produces endogenous hormones to regulate growth.
- Economists often distinguish between endogenous factors, like consumer spending, and exogenous factors, like natural disasters.
- The study suggests that the plant's resistance to disease is due to endogenous compounds rather than the external application of synthetic pesticides.

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